Police, public come together to make city safer

Neha Saini
Tribune News Service
Amritsar, September 24

FICCI FLO hosted its 10th instalment of Face To Face with the government, with Punjab DGP Dinkar Gupta, Commissioner of Police Dr Sukhchain Singh Gill and IPS officer Gurpreet Kaur Deo being as panellists. The aim of the event was to create a direct dialogue between police officials and audience, including eminent citizens and women’s organisations, from all across Punjab who raised their concerns hoping to find a solution as well as to be part of the solution.

The session largely saw DGP Dinkar Gupta batting for reforms and modernisation of the police force. “We are 80,700-strong police force and more often than not, cops are overworked, and perform under pretty bad living and working conditions. There is an urgent need for an overhaul of the force, update of methods and training as well as modern equipments. Mostly, the police force has to face a lot of criticism. But we have been working to change that,” he said. He shared the recent projects, including Safe City, predictive policing and community policing to engage with public to create a collaborative combat effort against increasing street crime.

“We have introduced concept like artificial intelligence, facial recognition and are investing in technology to improve the response and output of the force,” he said.

CP, Amritsar, Dr Sukhchain Singh Gill, said identifying security loopholes in the city was his priority. “We are working to put more women police officers on streets during the day and night to create a safe environment for women. Also, police personnel are being trained in people-friendly practices and humanitarian approach towards public.”

DGP Dinkar Gupta commented on the increasing incidents of assault on police personnel. “We are trying to reach out to people to inform them about the duties of a police officer and break the misconceptions. We are going to come down heavily on people who act violently against police officers.”

Arushi Verma, chairperson, FICCI FLO, said the need for clear and collaborative communication, especially with policy makers, is very important today. “Our theme this year — Responsible Citizens and Responsive Government — is aimed at bridging any gap that may hinder the true redress of issues in our society. Our guests today exchanged ideas and thoughts with all present on how each citizen can contribute to a safe and secure Punjab.”