In a determined effort to address corruption and inefficiency within Punjab’s law enforcement, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Tuesday announced sweeping reforms following the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) significant defeat in the recently-concluded Lok Sabha elections, where the party lost 10 out of 13 seats.
Mann, convening a high-stakes meeting with all Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) and Police Commissioners across the State, expressed severe dissatisfaction with the current state of policing, particularly highlighting the troubling nexus between police officers and drug peddlers. Mann cited instances where drug dealers, apprehended by the public and handed over to the police, were released due to personal connections within the force.
“Yaariyaan te rishtedariyaan (friendship and kinship) will no longer be tolerated in police stations,” Mann declared, announcing comprehensive personnel transfers to dismantle these corrupt networks. He emphasized the necessity for accountability, stating that all complaints from legislators must be promptly addressed by the police. At the same time, he declared that the officers failing to perform their duties would face transfers to less desirable postings in Chandigarh.
In a decisive move against the drug menace, Mann ordered the immediate attachment of properties belonging to the drug traffickers within seven days of their arrest. He also warned that any police personnel found colluding with drug criminals would be dismissed immediately.
Additionally, Mann announced a major recruitment drive, with plans to hire 10,000 new police personnel. This initiative aims to bolster the state’s law enforcement capabilities, addressing both public safety and job creation. AAP Government’s proactive measures reflect their commitment to addressing the issues that contributed to their recent electoral losses and restoring public trust.
The Chief Minister made it clear that the State Government is shifting from a commission-based approach to a mission-oriented strategy, particularly in combating drug smuggling and associated crimes.
Mann’s reforms extend to the rotation of police postings to prevent long-term associations between officers and criminals. Over 10,000 police transfers have been executed to disrupt these networks. Mann reiterated the state’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption and drugs, vowing that no stone would be left unturned in this fight.
The Chief Minister ordered that any property owned by drug traffickers be attached within a week of their arrest. This measure aimed at hitting the criminals where it hurts most — their assets. Additionally, Mann stated that police officers found to be in cahoots with drug peddlers would be dismissed on the spot, signaling a no-nonsense approach to internal corruption.
Mann also announced plans for a significant recruitment drive to strengthen the police force. “Punjab Police is going to make 10,000 new recruitments at different levels in the coming days,” he said. This move is expected to enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement and provide much-needed employment opportunities for the youth of Punjab. To support the increased police force, the Punjab Government plans to provide new vehicles and technological tools to improve efficiency. Mann mentioned that 315 Station House Officers (SHOs) have already received new vehicles, with more to come. The use of modern technology is also being prioritized to maintain law and order.
‘CPs, SSPs to be held personally accountable for public’s undue harassment’
Mann has mandated that all police officers, including munshis and havildars, be rotated regularly to prevent the formation of corrupt cliques. He stressed that SSPs and Police Commissioners would be held personally accountable for any undue harassment of the general public. The Chief Minister underscored the importance of police officers treating all complaints seriously, especially those from legislators, and ensuring timely action. “Being the Chief Minister, I gave strict directions that if any officer demands money or commission for any work and indulges in illegal work in any district, the DC and the SSP will be held responsible for this and on that basis, action will be taken,” said Mann. The Chief Minister reiterated the Government’s commitment to providing transparent, responsive, and effective administration to the public. He stressed that the days of the State Government running on “commission” are over, and it is now being run on a “mission” mode. “A detailed strategy has been formed to tackle smugglers, gangsters and terrorists who are using drones for operating in the State,” he said.
Help Center at Delhi Airport
In a move to assist Punjabi travelers, the Punjab Government will establish a help center at Delhi Airport. Staffed by locals fluent in Punjabi, the center will help Punjabis navigate any issues they may encounter while traveling. This initiative highlights the government’s dedication to serve its diaspora and ensuring their comfort and safety.
Road Safety Force
Mann highlighted the success of the Sadak Surakhya Force, which has already saved over 2,000 lives and recovered significant property. This force is a part of the broader strategy to enhance public safety and law enforcement efficiency in the state.
Fighting the Nation's War Against Drugs
Mann asserted that Punjab is on the frontlines of the nation’s battle against drug smuggling. He lamented that while no drugs are produced in Punjab, the State suffers due to smuggling from other regions and across borders. Mann emphasized that the Punjab Police have been directed to wage a war against this menace, transforming it into a mass movement for the state's welfare. “The property of any drug dealer, who is caught, will be attached,” said the Chief Minister, underlining that orders have been given to strictly implement this. “Orders have been issued to Punjab Police to eliminate the issue of drug addiction from Punjab, this will be made a mission and work will be done on a war-footing,” said Mann.
