Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge held a crucial meeting with top police officials on Friday, marking his first major engagement after taking charge of the portfolio. Kharge replaced G Parameshwara as the Home Minister in the new Cabinet led by Chief Minister D K Shivakumar.
Meeting with Senior Police Officials
The meeting, which took place at the Home Office in Bengaluru, was attended by the Director General of Police, Additional Directors General of Police, and other senior officers from various districts. Discussions focused on the current law and order situation in the state, with an emphasis on crime prevention, internal security, and the implementation of recent government policies.
Key Agenda Points
- Crime Control: Strategies to curb rising cybercrime and drug trafficking were deliberated. Kharge stressed the need for modernizing police infrastructure and enhancing digital surveillance capabilities.
- Internal Security: The minister reviewed the preparedness of the police force to handle communal tensions and extremist activities, especially in border districts.
- Police Reforms: Kharge discussed the pending recommendations of the Police Reforms Commission and assured the officers of the government's commitment to timely implementation.
- Women's Safety: A dedicated action plan to improve women's safety in public spaces was presented, including increased patrolling and installation of CCTV cameras in vulnerable areas.
Kharge's Vision for the Home Department
In his address, Kharge emphasized transparency and accountability in policing. He urged officers to maintain a citizen-friendly approach while ensuring strict adherence to the law. The minister also highlighted the importance of community policing to build trust between the public and the police force.
Sources revealed that Kharge plans to conduct regular review meetings and field visits to assess the ground-level situation. He is also expected to push for the early filling of vacancies in the police department to strengthen the force.
Reactions from Police Officials
Senior officers welcomed the minister's proactive stance. DGP Alok Mohan stated that the meeting was productive and that the department looks forward to working under Kharge's leadership. Additional DG (Law and Order) Pratap Reddy assured the minister of full cooperation in implementing the discussed measures.
The meeting concluded with Kharge directing the officers to submit a detailed report on the current crime statistics and infrastructure gaps within a week. This report will serve as the basis for future policy decisions.
