Concerned at the increasing number of crimes and low conviction rate, Chief Minister D V Sadananda Gowda on Monday offered a critical view of the police, accusing the men in khaki of running behind politicians for plum postings.

He also pointed out that the police were not solving many cases and were merely producing “B” reports.

Speaking after inaugurating a two-day conference of the Karnataka State Senior Police Officers’ Conference here on Monday, the chief minister could barely conceal his dismay over the increasing crime rate.

“The crime rate has gone up, while the conviction rate has gone down. The police, without investigating the cases, are in a tearing hurry in submitting ‘B’ reports,” Gowda said.

“Last year alone, 8,000 cases have been closed. Currently, more than 60,000 cases are pending and yet to be detected. This has made the public doubt the credibility of the police department as well as the government,” Gowda said.

“The officers meet the chief ministers along with various politicians seeking plump posts. I have a long list of officers who constantly use political clout for transfers. This must end.
The officers should work wherever they are posted,” the chief minister observed. Police should discharge their duties without bowing to political compulsions, the chief minister said, directing them not to run after politicians.

He also spoke of his unhappiness over the non-utilisation of funds allocated in the previous budget.

“There is a huge gap between the police and anti-naxal force in the coastal region which need to be addressed. There should be a better understanding between the police and prosecution which will ensure more convictions. The government is recruiting 4,000 candidates for the police department and 218 candidates for the post of assistant public prosecutor,” he added.

Gowda emphasised on securing the 316-kilometre-long coastal region and the importance of an industrial security force.

Home and Transport Minister R Ashoka said a recent meeting involving Central government officials had stressed the need to protect the backward classes and communities. The police should focus on that, he said.