Siddaramaiah Flags Concern Over Outside Police Forces Cracking Drug Cases in Karnataka
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed serious concern on Saturday about police forces from other states solving major drug cases within Karnataka. He described this situation as "embarrassing" for the state's own police department.
Siddaramaiah made these remarks while addressing the annual conference of police officers in Bengaluru. He acknowledged that overall crime rates in Karnataka have declined significantly over the past few years. However, he highlighted two persistent challenges that remain largely uncontrolled.
Cybercrime and Drugs Remain Major Challenges
The Chief Minister specifically pointed to cybercrime and offences under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act as areas requiring urgent attention. "While serious crimes like murder, extortion, dacoity and robbery have decreased, cybercrime and drug-related offences continue to pose serious challenges," Siddaramaiah stated.
He urged the Karnataka Police to intensify their crackdown on drug networks operating within the state. The fact that outside police forces have been cracking major drug cases in Karnataka particularly troubled him.
Government Prepared to Strengthen Laws
Siddaramaiah assured that the government would not hesitate to amend or strengthen existing laws to deal more effectively with the drug menace. "If there is a need to amend or strengthen the law to deal with the drug menace more effectively, the government will not hesitate to do so," he declared.
The Chief Minister revealed that the government is prepared to introduce a new law in the forthcoming Assembly session. This legislation would ensure stricter action against those involved in drug-related offences.
Equal Application of Law Emphasized
Siddaramaiah reiterated the constitutional principle that the law must apply equally to all citizens, regardless of power or position. "No one should be spared for wrongdoing. The powerful and anti-social elements must not be given any leeway under any circumstances," he emphasized.
He stressed the collective responsibility to protect vulnerable sections of society, including Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, backward classes and religious minorities. Ensuring equal justice for all remains a fundamental duty of the police, according to the Chief Minister.
Mixed Performance on Crime Statistics
While serious crimes have declined over the past year, Siddaramaiah expressed concern about several areas:
- Cybercrime continues to rise despite overall crime reduction
- Drug-related offences remain problematic
- Karnataka records low conviction rates in criminal cases
- Police personnel themselves were involved in 88 criminal cases last year
The Chief Minister noted some improvement in cases involving atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. The conviction rate has increased from around 3 percent last year to 12 percent this year. However, he acknowledged that further improvement is necessary.
Grassroots Governance and Prevention
Siddaramaiah emphasized the importance of grassroots governance in maintaining peace. "People can live peacefully in a taluk if tahsildars and police inspectors perform their duties sincerely," he observed.
He pointed to several incidents that could have been prevented with better anticipation and precautionary measures:
- ATM robberies across the state
- Banner-related violence in Ballari
- The stampede at M Chinnaswamy Stadium
Regarding security for IPL matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Siddaramaiah said a task force headed by the home minister has made recommendations. Permission for matches would be granted only after management complies with prescribed guidelines.
Modern Technology and Accountability
The Chief Minister stressed the need for effective use of modern technology to tackle the growing incidence of cybercrime. He also warned that irregularities in prisons and failures in controlling drug networks would not be tolerated.
"Accountability will be enforced strictly," Siddaramaiah declared, emphasizing that law and order remains closely linked to development. Strong law and order is essential for boosting investment and achieving development goals.
Siddaramaiah concluded by reaffirming the government's commitment to ensuring protection and justice for every citizen of Karnataka.
