Dehradun: Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan reviewed the functioning of the Police Department at the Secretariat on Monday. He directed officials to strengthen measures to prevent human and child trafficking, ensure effective action against cybercrime, intensify the campaign against drug abuse and increase the use of modern technology in investigations.
The Chief Secretary directed officials to ensure effective action against cases of human and child trafficking across the state, including mountainous areas. He called for integrating data from the Women and Child Development Department and the Police Department, appointing nodal officers for better coordination between the two departments, and forming special teams to trace missing women and children.
He directed officials to conduct special drives to trace unaccounted-for children and women, analyse human trafficking cases individually and identify organised trafficking networks for strong action against them. He also called for strengthening arrangements for the rehabilitation of rescued victims and their safe return to their families.
Special Focus on Cybercrime
In view of the growing challenge of cybercrime, the Chief Secretary directed that the manpower of the cyber police be increased and that banking-sector experts, along with cyber specialists, be integrated into the system. He also stressed better coordination among various departments in action against drug abuse.
Greater Use of Technology in Investigations
The Chief Secretary directed the police to make greater use of technology during investigations. Investigating officers should be provided with the necessary equipment, separate investigation units should be established at police stations registering a high number of FIRs, and rejected e-FIR cases should be analysed. He also directed officials to activate digital policing systems at the earliest and strengthen communication networks in areas with weak connectivity.
Seized Vehicles to Be Cleared from Police Stations
The Chief Secretary said police stations were facing space constraints due to seized vehicles. He directed officials to adopt a digital storage system for disposal-related records and conduct campaigns across districts to dispose of seized vehicles. Monthly reports on the progress were also sought.
Director General of Police Deepam Seth, along with senior officials from the Home Department and Police Department, attended the meeting.
