Ghaziabad: In a significant step towards crime reduction, nearly 150 individuals with criminal backgrounds in Ghaziabad pledged on Tuesday to abandon illegal activities under a police-led rehabilitation initiative. The programme, part of a broader verification drive named 'Operation Clean Sweep', saw young and middle-aged men raising their hands to take a formal oath and holding placards seeking forgiveness from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Criminals take collective oath
The participants collectively vowed, 'We take an oath that we will never commit any crime in the future or indulge in any wrong activity.' Many of them carried posters addressed to the Chief Minister, assuring him that they would not return to unlawful acts and requesting pardon. The placards prominently displayed messages such as 'Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ji, we will not commit crimes in the future. Please forgive us.'
Police verification drive
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Trans-Hindon) Dhaval Jaiswal explained that the exercise is part of a comprehensive verification campaign under 'Operation Clean Sweep' across Ghaziabad. He stated, 'All persons who are criminals, have previous complaints against them or have a history of such activities are being verified. Their residence, movements and present activities are being recorded.' The database of these individuals is being integrated into the police system to facilitate monitoring of their future actions. Jaiswal added, 'Verification plays an important role in reducing crime. If any crime takes place, it helps in quickly identifying those involved.'
Impact on crime prevention
The initiative aims to deter repeat offenses and reintegrate former offenders into society. By maintaining a close watch on their activities, the police hope to create a safer environment. The rehabilitation pledge marks a positive step towards reforming individuals and reducing crime rates in the region.
