Bhubaneswar: Director General of Police (DGP) Y B Khurania on Friday announced that hit lists of wanted criminals are being systematically prepared across Odisha to ensure strict action against them. He emphasized that these lists are being compiled at the police station level, enabling a more targeted and coordinated crackdown.
Zero Tolerance Policy
“We continue to maintain a zero-tolerance stance against criminals. Hit lists are being drawn up at the level of police stations and sub-divisions. All police stations have been instructed to take stringent action against offenders strictly as per law,” Khurania said. The move aims to enhance accountability and streamline efforts to apprehend dangerous individuals.
Clarification on Encounters
Responding to concerns over a spurt in non-fatal encounters across the state, the DGP clarified that Odisha police neither intend to initiate nor endorse such measures. “There is no provision for encounters in law, and Odisha police do not encourage such actions. These situations arise only when suspects open fire first, compelling police to retaliate in self-defence,” he explained. At least 11 non-fatal encounters have been reported this year, leaving 12 criminals injured. Eight of these incidents occurred this month alone, amid public outrage over a series of sensational crimes, including the Balianta mob lynching and street violence in Berhampur.
Special Drive Results
Khurania further stated that 5,703 non-bailable warrants have been executed and 520 absconding accused arrested during a special drive launched on May 12. “Our ongoing drive against criminals, drug traffickers, mining mafia, and cattle smugglers has yielded significant results. We seized around 876 grams of brown sugar and 7,398 kg of ganja, and arrested 137 smugglers,” the DGP said. The police force remains vigilant and committed to maintaining law and order in the state.
