Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presided over a Police Department review meeting today, emphasizing the State Government’s commitment to modernizing the department and strengthening public services.
Modernization and Reforms in Police Stations
The Chief Minister announced plans to categorize police stations based on population, geographical factors, and rural-urban divisions to enhance efficiency. Appropriate staffing levels will be ensured, and registered police posts will be integrated with the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and System (CCTNS) to enable FIR registrations.
Addressing Staff Shortages and Recruitment
To tackle staff shortages, the Chief Minister confirmed that recruitment for 1226 police constables and 30 Sub-Inspectors is underway. Additional measures include filling 700 Home Guard posts and analyzing further staffing requirements across departments.
Anti-Drug Act and Stringent Laws Against Criminals
Chief Minister Sukhu reiterated the State Government’s resolve to introduce an Anti-Drug Act aimed at effectively combating drug peddling. He stressed that police reforms and stringent laws are crucial to ensuring public safety.
Advanced Technology and Data Management
A data warehouse and clearing agency will be established in the police department to analyze data from multiple sources for informed decision-making. The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of adopting cutting-edge technology to improve service delivery and operational efficiency.
Strengthening Home Guard, SDRF, and Fire Services
- A Home Guards Battalion Training Centre will be set up in Markand, Bilaspur district, to improve training infrastructure.
- 86 designated response centers will be digitized with adequate funding.
- Temporary deployment of Home Guards will support the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) until permanent staffing is completed.
- Rs. 19.40 crore will be released as the first installment for modernizing fire services.
Rising Cyber Crime Cases and Countermeasures
The Chief Minister expressed concern over the 11,892 cyber crime complaints reported in 2024, involving frauds amounting to Rs. 114.94 crore. The Cyber Cell successfully blocked Rs. 11.59 crore, representing 10.08% of the total fraud amount. He directed officials to raise public awareness about cyber crimes and take strict action against offenders.
Commitment to Disaster Management and Law Enforcement
The State Government reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing disaster management capabilities. Authorities will be empowered to hire vehicles for relief and rehabilitation during emergencies. Modernizing police, law enforcement, and emergency services remains a priority.
Meeting Attendees
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, Additional Chief Secretary Home Onkar Chand Sharma, Secretary to Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, Director General of Police Atul Verma, Director General CID S.R. Ojha, ADGP Satwant Atwal, and other senior officials of the Police Department.
Himachal Pradesh to Modernize Police and Emergency Services: CM Sukhu
