894 VPOs appointed for better policing in dist

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, February 22

Vikram Jeet Duggal, Amritsar (Rural) SSP, said police personnel from the rank of a constable to an ASI had been deputed as VPO, depending on the population and geography characteristics of villages.

The scheme replaces the Zail system under which one zail officer was appointed for several villages. “Though the revival of the Zail system was a success, there were several difficulties being faced due to staff shortage and population,” said the SSP, adding that with the VPO scheme would increase the police presence.

Duggal said besides maintaining law and order, the VPOs would also resolve other issues facing villages. They could approach the department concerned to get the issue addressed at the grounds-level, he added. They would also build a digital information system.

The villages have been divided into three categories, A, B and C, on the basis of area, population, problems and proximity to the International Border. The VPOs would visit houses, religious and educational places, banks and other important places in their adopted villages at least once a week to meet residents. They would collect information, including contact number, of every resident and also share their number with them, so that people can contact the police in need. The VPOs would create groups on social media platforms to keep in touch with youngsters and NGOs.

Villager residents can share their grievances related to drug abuse, water crisis, draught, absence of street lights and schools with the police officials, who would also keep a tab on the entry of outsiders in villages.

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