BENGALURU: Emphasising that a robust law and order machinery will foster a thriving ecosystem for economic growth and peace, CM Siddaramaiah on Wednesday said, “There is a direct link between law and order, capital investment, development, and job creation. Unemployment is a major concern, and for it to be managed effectively, law and order must be maintained, and peace must prevail.”
Addressing the gathering at the Police Flag Day celebrations at KSRP Parade Ground in Koramangala, the CM also highlighted the rise in cybercrime due to technological advancement, along with the need to leverage technology to curb it. Further, he mentioned that his goal was to make Karnataka a drug-free state, and added that the police must take a firm stand on completely dismantling the drug network.
Acknowledging, however, that the crime rate has been declining over the past two years, Siddaramaiah said, “The government will stand by the police department, but we won’t tolerate any negligence on duty. The police beat system must be made more effective, and society must be rid of hooliganism and rowdyism.”
Echoing a similar sentiment, Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara stressed the need to completely eradicate crime and drug-related activities in the state, while ensuring greater safety for women. He added that a peaceful environment would attract more investment to the state, in turn generating more jobs.
“Cybercrime remains one of the biggest challenges in the country. The state registers around 20,000 cases annually. Due to Bengaluru’s stature as an IT hub and its strong internet connectivity, cybercrime tends to be higher here. The government is working to curb such crimes, and stricter measures will be implemented,” the home minister said.
He further informed: “Bengaluru’s Traffic Management Centre has launched the ASTraM application, which has received national recognition. The police department has taken significant steps to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse among the youth. Over a million students from schools and colleges have been educated on the issue. The police have successfully got Naxals to surrender and made Karnataka a Naxal-free state.”
On the occasion, Siddaramaiah presented the Chief Minister’s Medals, including those that were pending for three years.
“To earn the CM’s Medal, one must demonstrate efficiency, honesty, and professionalism,” he said. The CM’s Political Secretary Nazir Ahmad, state police chief Alok Mohan, and other senior police officers were present.