Bhubaneswar: Odisha DGP Vinaytosh Mishra on Tuesday formally inaugurated the 71st State Police Duty Meet at the Reserve Police Ground in Buxi Bazaar in Kataka.
A total of 319 competitors from 39 police units across the state are taking part in the competition, along with 45 dogs and their handlers. The participants include 44 Inspectors, 52 Sub-Inspectors, 54 Assistant Sub-Inspectors, 17 Havildars and 152 Constables.
Addressing the gathering, the DGP said that the primary responsibilities of the police are crime prevention, proper investigation and ensuring the rule of law. Keeping in view the changing nature of modern crimes, he stressed the need for continuous improvement in the professional competence, scientific knowledge and technical skills of police personnel to effectively tackle emerging challenges such as cybercrime, online fraud and crimes against women and children.
With the implementation of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), greater emphasis must be placed on scientific investigation and the proper use of forensic and digital evidence, the DGP noted.
He described the Duty Meet as an excellent platform for police officers and personnel to test their knowledge, skills and experience while learning from one another.
Highlighting the recent achievements of Odisha Police, Mishra said the force has taken firm steps against organised crime, extremism, narcotics smuggling, illegal arms trade and human trafficking over the past few years.
He appreciated the efforts of officers and personnel in ensuring speedy investigation and conviction in POCSO and other sensitive cases. Citing a recent example, he said a theft case in Jharsuguda had resulted in conviction within just 17 days and congratulated the Jharsuguda SP and his team for the achievement.
The best performers in the ongoing competition will be selected to form the Odisha Police contingent for the forthcoming All India Police Duty Meet. The DGP called upon all competitors to put up their best performance, learn from each other and enhance the prestige of Odisha Police.
He reiterated that the safety of citizens, protection of women and children, maintenance of communal harmony and prevention of violence remain the highest priorities of the police. Public trust, he said, is the greatest strength of the force, and police personnel must continue to serve the people with truth, justice, sensitivity and dedication.
The state-level competition is being organised under the direct supervision of IGP Crime Branch Dr Sarthak Sarangi, who delivered the welcome address. DIG, Crime Branch, Madkar Sandeep Sampat proposed the vote of thanks. A large number of senior police officers of the state were present on the occasion.
