Increase surveillance, fast-track court cases to reduce crime in Ludhiana

Install more CCTVs at vulnerable place I Augment police patrolling I Initiate awareness & self-defence programmes

Issue at hand

SNATCHERS have be dealt with strict hands. Though the police nab snatchers and put them behind bars, these criminals come out on bail after sometime and continue with their nefarious activities. Maximum snatchers arrested by the police are habitual offenders as they have little fear of the law. The police need to keep tab over snatchers whenever they come out of jail. The police can also hold counselling sessions for snatchers and their family members in order to bring them into the mainstream society.

QUESTION for next week

Why is that after windy weather and rains, the power supply gets disrupted, depriving consumers of electricity and water for hours altogether. How can this issue be redressed by the authorities concerned?

Suggestions in not more than 150 words can be sent to ludhianadesk@tribunemail.com by Thursday (September 4)

Coordinated action could control crime

Ludhiana has recently witnessed a worrying rise in snatching incidents, sparking concerns over public safety. Victims, often women and the elderly, are being targeted in broad daylight by miscreants who escape swiftly, leaving behind fear and trauma. This surge has shaken public confidence and highlighted gaps in both law enforcement and judicial mechanisms. Increased surveillance through more CCTV cameras in vulnerable areas, integrated with real-time monitoring systems, can act as both a deterrent and an effective investigative tool. Equally important is the need for visible patrolling, especially during peak hours in markets and residential areas. However, arrests alone are not enough. A slow conviction process emboldens offenders. Speedy trials and strict sentencing can send a strong message that such crimes will not be tolerated. Public safety, particularly for women, who often feel most vulnerable, depends on swift, coordinated action. For Ludhiana to remain a thriving, safe city, the authorities must blend technology with efficiency in law enforcement and ensure justice is not delayed.

Novin Christopher

Award strict punishment

The incidents of snatching and theft exacerbated the problem of lawlessness in Ludhiana. Certainly, stricter surveillance and rapid conviction with stringent punishment is demand of the hour. An effective patrolling and deployment of police personnel at regular distances would deter these crimes. The police administration should learn from the Chandigarh Police how to curb this menace and to provide safe environment to public. The state government must provide adequate resources and police personnel to most populous city of Punjab to tackle crime.

Arshdeep Singh Gill

Focus must be on AI-powered analysis

Implementing stricter surveillance and faster conviction mechanisms is crucial for Ludhiana to tackle the rising number of snatching cases and ensure public safety, particularly for women. The Police Department has already taken steps in this direction by introducing an Emergency Response System (ERS) that integrates traffic police, PCR, and the control centre under one roof, utilising real-time surveillance from 1,550 functional cameras. This system has shown promise in improving response times and crime management. To further enhance public safety, the police can focus on leveraging technology like predictive policing, AI-powered video analysis, and IoT-enabled smart surveillance. Additionally, establishing a dedicated anti-snatching squad to patrol streets during peak hours and conducting surprise checks at strategic locations can help deter potential offenders. Faster conviction mechanisms, such as fast-track courts and stricter penalties for snatching cases, can also serve as a strong deterrent.

Jaspreet Kaur

Form panels to nab habitual offenders

The menace of snatching refers to the widespread and increasing problem of crime wherein property, especially mobile phones and jewellery, is forcibly and quickly seized from a person, spreading fear and insecurity in society. The rise in snatching incidents in the city, particularly of mobile phones containing sensitive financial and personal data, is a growing concern. A new criminal law has made snatching a distinct crime under Section 304. This new law aims to provide a specific and unified legal framework to combat snatching incidents across the country. Individuals found guilty of snatching can face imprisonment for up to three years and a fine. The police should form special committees to identify and monitor habitual offenders. PCR and CIA (Crime Investigation Agency) teams should actively work to catch snatchers, particularly those who target people in posh areas and use sport bikes. The court should award exemplary punishment to offenders. CCTV cameras must be installed at vulnerable locations. Police patrolling must be increased.

Sukhdev Sharma

Quick police action need of the hour

The rise in snatching cases in Ludhiana has created fear, especially among women. Stricter surveillance through the CCTVs, better street lighting, and quick police action are important to curb such crimes. Fast conviction of thieves will also discourage others from committing such crimes. But security alone is not enough. We must address the real cause behind many of these snatchings - drugs. Most youngsters steal not for greed, but to fund their addiction. Unless drug supply is controlled, the crime will continue to rise. Along with strict policing, the government should finish drug trade, create awareness, and provide better job opportunities for the youth.

Harmandeep Kaur

Delayed justice emboldens criminals

To effectively combat the growing number of snatching instances in Ludhiana, the city must ensure two measures - more surveillance and prompt punishment for offenders. For starting, installing high-resolution CCTV cameras in the critical areas, notably near markets, bus stops and residential communities, will serve as a deterrent as well as a tool for tracking down perpetrators of the crime. Integrating these cameras with the centralised police monitoring system can assure a timely reaction in an emergency. Secondly, the legal system should establish a fast-track mechanism for tackling crimes against women and snatchings. Delayed justice emboldens criminals, whereas speedy verdicts send a clear message that crime will not be condoned. By combining technology-driven vigilance with fast and equitable punishment, Ludhiana may improve public safety and build trust in its residents, particularly women.

Tamanpreet Kaur Khangura

Install CCTVs in public places

To ensure public safety, CCTV cameras should be installed in all public places as well as in isolated or less crowded areas. This would help the authorities keep a close watch on suspicious activities and provide evidence in case a crime is committed. The police must take strict action to identify and catch individuals who engage in snatchings or criminal activities. At the same time, it is equally important to empower girls so that they feel confident and secure. Every woman/girl should be made aware of self-defence techniques. Special classes should be organised in schools to teach such skills. Such training would not only give them confidence, but also inspire them to help others in the times of need. Moreover, society should spread awareness and encourage young women to stand strong against any threat. Criminals involved in snatchings must be given strict and exemplary punishments so that others are discouraged from committing crimes.

Ishpreet Kaur

Mutual efforts can ensure safety

The alarming rise in the number of snatching cases in Ludhiana demands urgent and effective measures. The city should implement stricter surveillance through well-monitored CCTV networks at vulnerable points. Regular police patrolling should be done in market and residential areas. The use of GPS tracking and emergency helplines will play a crucial role in ensuring public safety, especially for women. Faster judicial process to ensure swift conviction of offender is very important as it will send a clear message against lawlessness. Boards carrying emergency helplines numbers should be installed so victims can quickly call for help. Awareness campaigns should also be introduced to awaken society against such criminal activities. Special women safety units and self- defence workshops will help improve safety. Ludhiana being a growing urban hub, cannot afford to compromise on the public security. Through mutual efforts of the police, the civic authorities and citizens, public security can be ensured.

Avleen Kaur

Avoid wearing flashy jewellery

Snatching incidents are rampant in Ludhiana, with the police seemingly unable to put a stop to them. There is a need to intensify patrolling, especially on two-wheelers to navigate narrow roads more effectively. CCTV cameras should be installed in every nook and corner. The police should keep a close watch on habitual offenders to curb repeat snatching incidents. The police should also organise self-defence classes in schools and colleges for women and girls. To really tackle snatching, it's not just up to the police, we as responsible citizens, need to do our part by following some simple tips to stay safe. Pay full attention to who is around you when you are in public places. Avoid talking on mobile phone while walking alone. The snatchers often target isolated areas, focusing on women walking alone with visible jewellery. Avoid wearing flashy or showy ornaments. Travel on well-lighted and busy routes only. At night, avoid taking shortcuts through deserted places. If you are going to attend a social function, keep your jewellery in a hand bag and wear it at the venue and remove it when you come out. In case the jewellery or cash is snatched, raise an alarm and try to attract the attention of others. Also try to note down the number of bike of the snatcher and immediately dial helpline '100'or '112' to alert police control room.

RS Sembhi

Adopt quick conviction methods

With an alarming rise in snatching cases in Ludhiana, particularly those targeting women, the city must urgently adopt stricter surveillance and quicker conviction mechanisms. Installing high-quality CCTV cameras in vulnerable zones, integrating them with AI-based facial recognition, and ensuring real-time police monitoring will make offenders think twice. Alongside this, frequent patrolling, especially in markets, bus stands, and residential areas, can increase safety. Fast-track courts dedicated to handling snatching cases will not only speed up trials, but also build confidence among citizens that justice is both swift and certain. Stricter punishments, especially for repeat offenders, will send a clear deterrent message. Additionally, awareness campaigns, mobile safety apps, and community policing initiatives can empower women to report crimes fearlessly. Safety must go beyond rhetoric - Ludhiana needs a proactive system that prevents crime, ensures quick accountability, and reassures its citizens, particularly women, that the city truly belongs to them.

Prabhjot Singh Khalsa

Fast-track probe for more convictions

The rise in snatching cases across Ludhiana has left residents, especially women and senior citizens, feeling anxious and unsafe. Streets that should be lively and welcoming have, for many, become places of caution and fear. To bring back a sense of security, stronger surveillance and quicker response systems are essential. Installing more CCTV cameras, ensuring proper street lighting, and increasing police patrolling can go a long way in deterring such crimes. Equally important is a faster investigation and conviction process to make sure offenders face timely and strict action. Community involvement also plays a crucial role. Awareness campaigns and neighbourhood watch groups can help support the efforts of law enforcement and build safer public spaces. Safety is everyone's responsibility. With the authorities, the police and citizens working hand in hand, Ludhiana can once again be the city where people feel secure walking its streets, whether it's day or night.

Puneetpal Kaur

Start self-defence training for women

Self-defence training is very important for citizens, especially for the safety of women. In case of snatching, quick and strong action should be taken immediately by the police. The government should install more CCTV cameras in public places so that snatchers can be caught without delay. Proper surveillance is essential to ensure public safety. At the same time, citizens must stay alert and aware of snatchers. When the people and the government work together with equal efforts, the problem of snatching can be controlled and reduced. A safe society is possible only with cooperation between authorities and responsible citizens.

Navneet Singh

Ensure streets are well-lit across city

Ludhiana is grappling with a surge in snatching cases, a crime that disproportionately affects women and undermines public safety. To address this growing menace, the city must adopt stricter surveillance and quicker conviction processes. Expanding CCTV coverage in vulnerable areas, ensuring well-lit streets, and deploying specialised police patrol units can serve as effective deterrents. Equally important is the need for fast-track courts and dedicated investigation teams to ensure swift justice, discouraging repeat offenders. Public awareness campaigns and women's helplines can further empower citizens to report crimes without hesitation. While technology-driven policing is vital, safeguards must be in place to protect privacy and prevent misuse of surveillance data. A balanced approach that combines vigilance, efficiency, and community involvement can restore confidence among residents. Ultimately, a safer Ludhiana is not just about preventing crime, it is about ensuring that women and all citizens move freely without fear.

Jagjit Singh

Keep better watch on criminal elements

In Ludhiana, more and more people are facing snatching. This has made many feel unsafe. Especially women feel this fear even more, because going to the market or coming back home can suddenly become risky and unsafe. Life in a city should not be like this. One way to stop snatching is to keep better watch on criminals. More cameras, good street lights, and regular police patrolling can make criminals think twice before they commit crime. But only this is not enough.

Sahibpreet Singh

Deploy quick-response teams

Snatching cases have become a serious concern in Ludhiana, creating fear among citizens, especially women. To tackle this issue, First, CCTV cameras should be installed in busy markets and public transport stops. Second, police patrolling must be increased, particularly during evening hours. Quick-response teams can be deployed in high-risk zones. Third, there should be stricter and faster conviction mechanisms, as delayed justice encourages criminals. A separate women's helpline and mobile apps with SOS features can also help in emergencies. Public awareness drives, urging people to stay alert and report suspicious activities, will strengthen community policing. If the authorities take strict measures and combine them with active citizen participation, Ludhiana can become a safer and more secure city for all.

Harneet Waraich

Women’s safety first priority

The increasing incidents of snatching in Ludhiana are concerning. It is important to take immediate steps for the safety of women because it is the first priority. CCTV cameras must be installed across city. Police patrolling should also be increased. People should not go out alone in the night. Valuables must be kept under lock at safe places.

Prabhjot Kaur

Public safety govt’s responsibility

Women, in particular, feel unsafe while commuting, even during daytime. Stricter surveillance, including installation of more CCTV cameras and active police patrolling in sensitive zones, must be initiated in the city. Alongside, swift trials and faster conviction mechanisms must be ensured to deter criminals from nefarious activities. Merely arresting culprits will not help. Not awarding punishment on time encourages crime. Public safety is the government's foremost responsibility. Only by combining strict law enforcement with speedy justice can Ludhiana once again become a city where citizens, especially women, feel secure.

Tanu Kumari

Deploy cops in plain clothes in city

Based on reports of rising snatching cases, especially targeting women, in Ludhiana, stricter surveillance and faster conviction mechanisms are viable options for the city to consider. There is strong evidence that such measures can increase public safety and deter crime, though they also raise important considerations around human rights and effective implementation. Increased police patrolling and surveillance, particularly in high-crime areas, deter criminals from nefarious activities. Studies show that a visible police presence creates a fear among potential criminals. Robust network of functional CCTV cameras with advanced technology at vulnerable points can significantly aid the police in tracking and identifying offenders. The police can deploy officials in plainclothes or use decoys in the areas known for snatchings to nab criminals.

Anmol Singh

People have to stay alert

It has been observed that cases of snatching in Ludhiana are on the rise. Busy markets, street shops and roadside stalls have become easy targets for snatchers. Women and young girls are particularly vulnerable to such incidents. It is, therefore, an urgent requirement to curb this menace at the earliest. One of the most important initiatives is to implement better surveillance through CCTV cameras at crowded places. Another effective step is to ensure a faster conviction mechanism in the city. Police personnel should be deployed in theft-prone areas to create a sense of safety in minds of the public and instil fear among potential offenders. The public also needs to stay alert. Carrying valuable items such as jewellery or excess cash should be avoided. People should carry only essential items and gain basic knowledge of self-defence to protect themselves in such situations. In case an incident occurs, it must be reported immediately to the police. Stricter punishments for offenders can reduce snatchings and guarantee public safety.

Tanveen Kaur

Legal process must not drag for years

The rising snatching cases in Ludhiana is a serious concern, especially for women who often feel unsafe while moving in the city. Strict action and faster conviction are needed to curb crime. Installing more CCTV cameras in crowded places, bus stops and markets can help in identifying culprits quickly. But cameras alone are not enough. There should be proper monitoring and immediate police action against criminals. Regular patrolling, especially during evenings, will also instil a sense of security in the people. At the same time, the legal process should not drag on for years. If punishment is delivered quickly, it will resist criminals from committing crime. Along with this, awareness drives can encourage women to report snatchings without any fear.

Japleen Kaur

Helpline number should be reachable

The administration should implement stricter surveillance and faster conviction mechanisms to ensure public safety, especially for women, in Ludhiana. Women helpline number should always be reachable. CCTV cameras should be installed, especially in public places. Self- defence training programs can be launched for women. The police should take strict action against criminals.

Harguneet Kaur

Snatchings common in many cities

That's an important and sensitive issue. Chain-snatching, purse-snatching, and phone-snatching incidents are unfortunately quite common in many cities. Women are often targeted because criminals assume they're carrying valuables and may be less likely to resist. The police must deploy more personnel (especially in plain clothes) in snatching-prone area, install mobile pickets at vulnerable stretches, and ensure that high-resolution CCTV cameras are working on roadsides, busy markets, near ATMs, bus stands and in secluded lanes. Fast-track courts for snatching cases and harsher penalties can act as a deterrent for criminals.

Sona Gupta

Maintain database of habitual offenders

The police can use a multifaceted approach to curb snatching incidents and keep snatchers under surveillance. A key strategy is to increase police presence at hotspots - areas identified through crime mapping as prone to such incidents. This includes visible patrols on foot or two-wheelers and deploying plainclothes police personnel. To ensure surveillance on snatchers, the police should leverage technology. The installation of more CCTV cameras in public places, traffic lights and roundabouts is crucial. These cameras, especially those with features like automatic number plate (ANPR) and facial recognition, can help track and identify suspects and their vehicles. A centralised control room can monitor these feeds in real time and dispatch units promptly. Furthermore, the police can maintain a database of repeat offenders and use technology like drones for aerial surveillance to monitor large crowds or events. Finally, public awareness campaigns are vital to help citizens take precautions, like avoiding the use of cellphones while walking in secluded areas and keeping valuables out of sight. A collaborative effort between the police and the community is key for deterring such crimes.

Rimmy Singhi