Chandigarh, September 24 :
Reiterating the firm commitment of the state government to maintai law and order, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday directed Commissioners of Police and Senior Superintendents of Police to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against crime and criminal elements.
Chairing a virtual meeting with the CPs and SSPs today, the Chief Minister emphasized that, in view of the upcoming festive season, it is imperative to ensure comprehensive arrangements for maintaining law and order, public safety, and the smooth conduct of events. He noted that the festive season often sees increased activity by miscreants, potential stampedes due to overcrowding, incidents of theft and snatching, and attempts by anti-social or anti-national elements to exploit the situation. To address these challenges, Bhagwant Singh Mann called for proactive and coordinated measures at all levels to ensure the safety and security of citizens.
The Chief Minister stressed the need for uninterrupted traffic flow, effective crowd management, and adequate arrangements for fire safety, medical emergencies, disaster preparedness, and other contingencies. Expressing concern over recent reports of social tension from certain areas, he urged the public to uphold the ethos of communal harmony and brotherhood. Bhagwant Singh Mann cautioned residents against being misled by misrepresented information and directed CPs and SSPs to engage with representatives of various organizations to prevent any untoward incidents and maintain communal peace across the state.
The Chief Minister also flagged the rising concern over radical and inflammatory content circulating on social media platforms. He said such content, often aimed at provoking communal or political tensions, poses a serious threat to public order. Bhagwant Singh Mann called for robust monitoring of social media at the CP and SSP levels, with all such content to be immediately referred to cybercrime units for strict action against those responsible for posting or sharing material that could disturb peace.
The Chief Minister further emphasized the importance of community policing and urged police officials to resolve petty issues at the SHO level. A sustained campaign, he said, must be launched to promote peace and brotherhood throughout the state. This approach, Bhagwant Singh Mann added, will reduce unnecessary litigation and allow the police to focus on their core responsibilities adding that for this institutional mechanism should be framed by the civil and Police administration.
The Chief Minister also lauded the Punjab Police for its continued efforts in the war against drugs under the “Yudh Nasheyan De Virudh” campaign, as well as its strong action against gangsters. He noted that, as a border state, Punjab faces persistent threats from forces inimical to its peace, progress, and prosperity, and urged the police to remain vigilant. Highlighting the police force’s proud legacy, Bhagwant Singh Mann expressed confidence that they would continue to uphold their tradition of effectively dealing with anti-national elements.
On the occasion, Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha, Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav and other senior officials were also present.
