Industrial associations in Punjab's manufacturing powerhouse, Ludhiana, have sounded the alarm over escalating security threats in the city's industrial zones. They are making a strong, unified appeal to the state government for the creation of specialised police stations dedicated solely to tackling industry-related crimes, with a sharp focus on the growing menace of cyber and financial frauds.
Plea for Specialised Policing to Match Evolving Threats
Upkar Singh Ahuja, President of the United Cycle and Parts Manufacturers Association (UCPMA), highlighted the critical gap in the current security framework. He stressed that merely strengthening security at focal points is insufficient. The nature of crimes targeting industry has evolved, demanding an equally evolved and technically skilled police response.
"There is a big need for a specialised police force that is trained in addressing industry-related crimes like cyber frauds and financial crimes. These challenges are increasing by the day," Ahuja stated. He explained that incidents such as complex industrial disputes, sensitive data breaches, sophisticated online financial scams, and organised theft rings require immediate intervention and a technical understanding that general police stations often lack due to constraints in manpower and specialised skills.
Impact on Economy, Workers, and Investor Confidence
Ahuja emphasised Ludhiana's pivotal role as a major manufacturing hub, contributing significantly to Punjab's economy and employment. This economic importance, he argued, makes it imperative for the government to build a robust security infrastructure tailored for industries. The proposed dedicated industrial police stations, ideally located near focal points, would ensure quick response times and officers familiar with industrial operations.
Industrial leaders believe such a specialised policing framework, coupled with enhanced focal point security and specific measures for women's safety, would do more than just protect assets and workers. It would serve as a cornerstone for strengthening investor confidence in Punjab's entire industrial ecosystem. A system attuned to industry needs would encourage timely reporting of crimes and help prevent repeat offences.
"When crimes are not reported or investigated properly, it emboldens criminals. Industries need confidence that their issues will be understood and acted upon swiftly," noted another industrialist, echoing the sentiment.
Ground Reality: Fear Alters Work Practices
The concerns extend beyond white-collar cyber crimes to everyday law and order. Ram Lubhaya, President of the Industrial Welfare Association, painted a grim picture of the situation in focal point areas, stating that staff and workers frequently feel unsafe due to common incidents of snatching and robberies.
The fear has become so pervasive that it has forced changes in basic work routines. "In fact, many factories allow their employees and workers to leave early on a salary day, so that they can reach home safely," Lubhaya revealed. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for practical measures like increased police patrols, better street lighting, and stricter surveillance, particularly during evening and night shifts in industrial zones.
The collective call from Ludhiana's industry is clear: the traditional police model is no longer adequate. The city's economic engines require a modern, specialised, and proactive security partner to safeguard its future growth and the well-being of its workforce.
