The problems created by ‘outsiders’ in Uttarakhand have been mentioned often in this column and by other commentators. Tourist destinations are particularly on the receiving end of hooliganism unleashed by visitors of a certain kind – a new moneyed class that has zero social grounding. Unfortunately, it is not possible to introduce such people to civilised behaviour, but the effort can be made to ensure they do not indulge in the kind of behaviour that led to the death of a retired Brigadier due to a stray bullet fired in a road rage incident between occupants of two cars.
To shore up law and order in a city, a multi-pronged approach focusing on modernising police infrastructure, strengthening intelligence, ensuring swift justice, and enhancing public-police cooperation is necessary. Based on recent models of urban policing and public administration, there are key strategies that can improve the law and order situation. There has to be police modernisation and technology integration. These include, particularly, intensive Surveillance – the deployment of high-definition CCTV camera networks at crime hotspots and public spaces, connecting them to a central command and control centre for proactive monitoring and reactive investigations.
In the present day, there is also AI and Data Analytics in which AI-powered tools for crime mapping, identifying patterns, and predictive policing can help deploy resources efficiently. Technology needs to be introduced in investigation – modern forensic science labs for DNA, ballistics, and digital forensics to improve conviction rates, rather than relying solely on witness testimony. The Crime and Criminal Tracking Network System should digitise records, FIRs, and charge sheets, allowing for faster tracking of criminals across jurisdictions.
Importantly, divide the city into smaller, manageable beats assigned to dedicated constables to improve visibility, gather local intelligence, and deter petty crime. Also, utilise GPS-enabled police response vehicles for fast response to distress calls, typically reducing response time to ideally under 10-15 minutes.
Dedicated, trained units need to be developed for specialised crimes, including cybercrime, narcotics control, and anti-trafficking units. Anti-Romeo Squads are needed to curb harassment of women in public places like colleges, parks, and malls.
Public-Police Cooperation and Accountability such as community policing by Mohalla Committees can help resolve conflicts and share information. Of course, police stations need to be more approachable, ensuring FIR registration is mandatory for cognisable offences, and setting up independent Police Complaints Authorities to address misconduct. There should be regular citizen feedback through surveys, online portals, and public forums on police performance. Also, insulate police from undue political interference by establishing State Security Commissions and ensuring a fixed, minimum tenure for police officers to maintain continuity.
Very importantly, offenders should be punished speedily by the judiciary, which would act as a deterrent. There should be a zero-tolerance policy against serious crime, ensuring that the law is applied fairly regardless of the perpetrator’s status, while avoiding arbitrary actions. Also, reduce the disproportionate allocation of police personnel for private security (VIPs) to bolster patrolling for the general public. Preventive Measures would also include Intelligence Gathering, Proactive Action, and Scientific Traffic Management.
