CUTTACK: Even as the State Government continues to grapple with the twin-kidnapping situation, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Sunday outlined Naxalism as the greatest challenge before the police in the State.
Attending the commemorative function of the 77th Police Formation Day and taking salute of the ceremonial parade, the Chief Minister urged the police to be proactive in countering the threats of Naxals, terrorism and rising organised crime in face of fast changing societal dynamics.
Steps are being taken to modernise the police and recruitment of personnel is on to give the law enforcement agency more teeth and capacity to deal with the disruptive elements effectively, he said.
He called upon the police to earn the trust and confidence of the people. People should have no fear of the police and turn to it in times of distress and problems without inhibition or apprehension. The problems of the poor and downtrodden, physically challenged, tribals and Dalits, children and women should be taken up on priority and handled with compassion, he emphasised.
He presented trophy and cash prizes to the officers and policemen along with retired staff for meritorious services and paid rich tributes to the martyrs who had laid down lives while on duty.
DGP Manmohan Praharaj, addressing the occasion, called for constant upgradation of skills among policemen to be able to efficiently deal with the changing crime and law and order problems.
He also presented the DGP medals to about 50 police officers and personnel of different ranks for distinction in service and duty on the occasion.
Senior police officers were present.