Home minister gives ultimatum to corrupt cops

'Police officers indulging in illegal activities despite warnings'

Home Minister K J George virtually gave an ultimatum to corrupt police officers on Tuesday, saying that earlier warnings to them had “fallen on deaf ears

”.

 The government would not tolerate unscrupulous elements anymore, he asserted. 

The minister asked people to approach him directly if any member of the police force demanded a bribe or indulged in an illegal activity. The complainants’ identity would be protected, he promised. 

“It’s high time the government took strict action against police officers who continue to indulge in corrupt practices despite warnings by the chief minister,” George said after inaugurating Spandana complex at the Basavanagudi police station. George recalled that in the first Cabinet meeting after becoming the chief minister, Siddaramaiah had warned of strict action against corrupt police officers. A large number of officers, however, continued to indulge in corrupt practices, the minister lamented. 

“It is highly disappointing to see media reports on Lokayukta laying traps for police officers,” George said, indirectly referring to the Halasurgate police inspector, C V Deepak, who was caught allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 10,000. 

The Home minister also announced that investigating officers in major criminal cases would not be transferred until the probes were completed. 

“A meeting in this regard will be held with senior police officers shortly,” George added. 

Under one roof 

The first Spandana complex at Basavanagudi police station has brought together police initiatives catering to senior citizens, women, community policing and traffic automation centre under one umbrella. More such complexes will be opened in other parts of the City. 

Senior citizens’ helpline: Launched in 2002, it caters to senior citizens in distress and redresses their grievances such as rehabilitation, legal advice. It also assists in tracing the missing senior citizens. The helpline has redressed 3,644 complaints so far. 

Women’s helpline: Launched in 1999, it coordinates with police, NGOs, hospitals, counselling centres and family courts. It also takes up gender sensitisation, legal awareness and social welfare programmes. 

Community policing: It was launched recently to bridge the gulf between police and the public. Residents are included as beat members to help the police identify problems and prevent crimes. 

Traffic Automation Centre: Has been opened in all police stations to ensure order on roads and prevent traffic violations.