Bengaluru, April 2 (IANS) Karnataka Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, on Thursday said that the Karnataka Police have been successful in creating an atmosphere of peace and harmony in the state and have earned recognition as one of the best police systems in the country.

He was speaking at the Police Flag Day celebrations and the Chief Minister’s Medal award ceremony held at the KSRP Parade Ground in Koramangala in Bengaluru, where he addressed the medal recipients.

He said that Police Flag Day is observed to commemorate the enforcement of the Police Act on April 2, 1965, which unified and disciplined the state police force.

The minister noted that the police have been working tirelessly to maintain peace, law and order in the state and have been successful in doing so. Citing the India Justice Report, he said Karnataka ranks first in the country in delivering justice to citizens, and particularly appreciated the role of the police department in ensuring justice.

He also mentioned that the Union Home Ministry has recognised Kavital Police Station in Raichur district as the third-best police station in the country. He expressed hope that all police stations in the state would strive to reach similar standards.

Parameshwara said the police department faces challenges every day, but despite these, under the leadership of the Chief Minister, the government has succeeded in maintaining peace in the state over the past three years. He added that investors prefer a peaceful environment, and the police have played a key role in creating such a conducive atmosphere.

He praised police officers and personnel for their efficiency and promptness in detecting crimes without compromising departmental integrity.

The minister said the government is committed to completely dismantling the drug network in the state, in line with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s vision of making Karnataka a drug-free state. Over the past three years, narcotics worth thousands of crores of rupees have been seized and strict action has been taken against those involved.

Highlighting the growing menace of cybercrime, he said Karnataka was the first state in the country to establish a Cyber Command Unit and appoint a Director General-level officer to lead it. He added that strengthening this unit has helped in curbing cyber offences.

Referring to national security, he said that while the Union Home Minister has declared the country Naxal-free, Karnataka had already achieved this status years ago by establishing an Anti-Naxal Force.

He emphasised that modern challenges require continuous training at all levels to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in policing.

Parameshwara also said that modern methods will be adopted in transfers and recruitment within the police department. He noted that the Chief Minister has made provisions in the budget for the recruitment of 8,000 Constables and 600 PSI posts, and has also announced a permanent Police Recruitment Board.

He added that further reforms would be introduced in the police department in the coming days.

–IANS

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