Amidst apprehensions over the revival of militancy after “regrouping” of some radical Sikh outfits, Punjab Police chief Suresh Arora on Tuesday ruled out such a possibility, saying that the police is keeping a close watch on the developments in the State.
Arora, talking to the reporters during his visit to inspect the Sadar Police station in Ropar, said that the “question of revival of militancy does not arise”.
On the unrest in Punjab in the wake of series of sacrilege incidents, the State Director General of Police (DGP) said: “Police is keeping a close watch on the developments.” On reports regarding “certain foreign powers” allegedly trying to disturb peace in Punjab, Arora said that the matter was under investigation and he would not like to comment on it.
In reply to another question, Arora said that the Punjab Police was reviewing the system of VVIP duties performed by the policemen. He said that the police officials at the lower level are forced to do duties beyond their eight hour shift.
DGP said that the prevailing system was about 30-year-old and it is required to be replaced with the help of modern technology. He said that he has been travelling to police stations around the State to get hold of the problems in functioning of the police force.
Most of the police stations were under-staffed and even the sanctioned strength of staff is not available, DGP said, adding that he would take remedial measures to update the police stations with modern technology and provide adequate staff. “The image building of police starts at police station level. If dealing of the police officers would be good with the general public, a positive message would go to masses,” he said.
Refusing to comment on the statement of Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal that actions of Congress party were anti-national, Arora offered “no comments”.
later addressing media a Kharar Police Station, Arora said that all the police stations of the State will be reviewed for the requisite basic facilities and vacant posts in the police stations will be filled very soon to ensure smooth functioning for the administration work.
DGP said that he will conduct review visits in all the police stations of the state which has been started from Sadar Police Station Kharar. “The main motive of this review is to fill the gaps for ensuring smooth administration works relating to police department and to ensure basic facilities in all police stations of the State,” he said.
He also made it clear that unsocial elements that disturb the normal law and order will not be tolerated. “Strict action will be taken against such elements,” he said.