SRINAGAR: Director General of Police (DGP) R R Swain of Jammu and Kashmir on Monday said that security should not be considered a status symbol in the Union Territory, but rather a necessity. He mentioned that the force is devising a plan to ensure individual security is addressed effectively.
“In Europe, a police chief moves around with just two guards. There is a different security system and atmosphere all around, as they have secured the areas. We have not reached that stage yet,” remarked DGP Swain, responding to a query regarding Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent statement about the Centre contemplating the revocation of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and troop reduction in JK.
The JK police chief emphasised that the police force is working on a plan to establish an environment where security is seen as a “need-based necessity rather than a status symbol.” DGP Swain addressed reporters at the Police Training School in Kathua district of Jammu.
He explained that the reduction in security resources is due to changes in the situation. “Another aspect is providing security to people and protected persons in a professional manner,” added the DGP. “We are trying to engage with the people and other stakeholders to emphasise that the police force is here for them. We aim to create an environment where we can ensure proper security through technology and other means while reducing the size of personnel assigned to protect people.”
DGP Swain highlighted that the police are developing a plan where securing homes and individuals will no longer be a concern.
Regarding security arrangements for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, the DGP mentioned that top security officials are in touch with the Centre to ensure a safe and secure environment for the polls, rallies, and candidates.
On the topic of women’s participation in the police force, he emphasised the need to increase the number of women in the force. “Currently, women constitute only 6 per cent of the police force. Today, 922 women constables joined as well. Regarding the expansion of the force, that’s a government decision. We will request the government in the future, as per our need and requirement, to expand the force,” he concluded—(KNO).
