Over 10,000 police constable posts vacant in Karnataka, says Home Minister Parameshwara

Bengaluru: Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Friday held a review meeting with senior police officers regarding the law and order in the state, including the cases of rowdyism, atrocities against women and bank robberies. 

Speaking to reporters after the meeting at the Vidhana Soudha, he said cases of atrocities against Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes were also reviewed. “Compared to the last three years, the conviction rate stands at 10%. This was examined with the officials concerned. Recruitment of police and prison staff was also discussed, and directions were given to complete the process,” he added. 

Eleven policemen, including an inspector linked to the drug mafia, have been suspended. Officials have been directed to immediately conduct departmental inquiries against them and submit reports to the government for further action, including dismissal, he stated. 

He added that the local DCP and inspector would be held responsible if drug peddling occurs in their jurisdiction. 

“Until now, we had been giving warnings to officers. If policemen are found to be involved in illegal activities, no further warnings will be given. Action will be taken without delay,” he explained. 

On the Anekal police inspector’s claims that he paid a bribe of Rs 80 lakh to the local MLA, Parameshwara said he had asked for a report and promised action. “If he alleges wrongdoing against an MLA, why was no action taken so far? Once the report is received, action will be taken immediately, he said. 

According to Parameshwara, the recruitment of 545 police sub-inspectors has already been completed. In the state, 10,000 to 15,000 constable posts remain vacant. He said he had given instructions on how recruitment should proceed and issued detailed guidelines after discussions. 

Asked about the vote deletion allegations in the Aland Assembly constituency, Parameshwara said no Special Investigation Team (SIT) had been formed and added that he needed to discuss the matter with the chief minister.