Shimla: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced plans to authorise registered police posts across the state to file FIRs and integrate these posts with the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network System (CCTNS).
In a decisive move against drug trafficking, the state will also introduce an anti-drug Act. Additionally, to address workforce shortage, the government will soon fill vacant positions in the police department.
To streamline data collection and management, a data warehouse and a clearing agency will be established within the department.
Recruitment of 1,226 constables, 30 Sub-Inspectors underway
During a review meeting of the police department, the Chief Minister emphasised the need for advanced technology to improve operational efficiency and enhance public service. He announced that police stations would be classified based on population, geography and urban-rural dynamics, with adequate staff allocated to boost their functionality.
The recruitment processes for 1,226 constables and 30 sub-inspectors is already underway, with the government aiming to expedite appointments to bridge staffing gaps.
700 home guard positions being filled too
CM Sukhu revealed that the state government is strengthening the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and the fire services department.
As part of this effort, 700 home guard positions are being filled. Additionally, the government will provide financial support for the digitization of 86 regular response centres.
He stated that efforts are being made to bolster law enforcement and emergency services while addressing challenges like cybercrime and disaster management.
Home guards to be deployed in boards, corporations
To maintain law and order, home guards will be deployed in various boards and corporations. The government also plans to establish a home guard battalion training centre in Markand, Bilaspur district, to improve training facilities.
Authorities will be empowered to hire vehicles for relief and rehabilitation work during disasters or emergencies, and temporary deployment of home guards will continue until permanent staff are recruited for the disaster response force.
Modernisation of fire services
The state is modernizing fire services, with Rs 19.40 crore being allocated as the first installment for improvements.
Expressing concern over the rise in cybercrimes, CM Sukhu disclosed that 11,892 cybercrime complaints were registered in the state in 2024, involving fraud worth Rs 114.94 crore. He reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling cyber threats and enhancing disaster management efforts.
By empowering police posts, modernising infrastructure and addressing staffing shortages, the government aims to ensure a safer and more efficient law enforcement system in Himachal Pradesh.