‘Visa-based data’ needed to curb drug smuggling by foreigners: Ahir

NEW DELHI:Speaking at the 70th Raising Day Parade of Delhi Police held today in northwest Delhi's New Police Lines, Union Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir stressed creating a database of foreign nationals visiting India as they often overstay their visa.

Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir with Police Commissioner Amulya Patnaik during the 70th Raising Day Parade at New Police Line in North Delhi on Thursday. Tribune photo: Mukesh Aggarwal

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, February 16

Speaking at the 70th Raising Day Parade of Delhi Police held today in northwest Delhi's New Police Lines, Union Minister of State for Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir stressed creating a database of foreign nationals visiting India as they often overstay their visa.

"It is the need of the hour to work on creating this data to safeguard our country," he said while referring to the recent arrest of a Nigerian by the Narcotics Control Bureau for allegedly smuggling cocaine by ingesting it.

He called for creation of 'visa-based data' of foreigners visiting the country.

While he was addressing the gathering, a young woman police commando fainted while standing after she completed her parade.

Officials said the woman officer fell because of ‘long duty hours’.

The woman officer fell with a thud on the ground when the minister was speaking. She was taken away in a stretcher from the ground.

And for the first time, PAC police of UP participated in the parade.

The minister in his address applauded the police for keeping the crime rate down in 2016. He said that Delhi is the face of our country and it has to be crime free so that people visiting India have a good impression about it.

He said that the police were instrumental in fighting the drug mafia which is finding its roots in Delhi.

The Commissioner of Delhi Police Amulya Patnaik, in his address, stated that his first inclination is towards sending a message to the people that they should have faith in the their police.

On their part, the police will ensure that the law and order is under control in every area. He pointed out the importance of beat officer who is the backbone of Delhi Police.

He applauded the efforts made by the police for the welfare of senior citizens and women.

He assured the police personnel that they would get on-time promotion and their payscales would be equal to those of other state police.

Finally, he announced the best Delhi Police station award to Kirti Nagar station for better law and order.