Bhubaneswar: A total of 592,257 cases were registered under 10 major crime categories in Odisha over the last three years, as informed by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi in the state assembly on Monday.
Responding to a question from Rourkela MLA Sarada Prasad Nayak, CM Majhi stated that the 10 major crime categories are: murder, dacoity, robbery, burglary, theft, swindling, rioting, rape, motor vehicle accidents and miscellaneous cases, which are detailed year-wise in the list below:
To address rising crime rates, CM Majhi highlighted several initiatives undertaken by the Odisha police:
- Emergency Response Support System (ERSS): A 24/7 emergency response system accessible by dialing toll-free number 112.
- Investigation Support: An Investigation Support Unit at the State Crime Branch in Cuttack provides guidance to officers using online platforms like Zoom and Google Meet for efficient crime investigations.
- Red Flag Cases for Women: Sensitive cases, particularly those involving women, are classified as “Red Flag” cases with appointed Investigating Officers and Special Public Prosecutors for proper trial management.
- Gender-Based Violence Prevention: In partnership with CAW&CW and UNICEF, the SAMPARK toll-free number (1800-4191-831) has been introduced to prevent gender-based violence. Additionally, Women and Children Desks are operational in 633 police stations across the state.
- Orange Flag Case Monitoring: A circular to monitor sensitive cases such as murder, organized crime, cybercrime, and wildlife crime has been sent to all police officers, ensuring oversight at the range DIG and IG levels.
- District Investigation Units: Dedicated units across 29 districts have been set up for sensitive cases, with specialized units focusing on crimes against women.
- Anti-Human Trafficking: The Integrated Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (IAHTU) operates in 36 districts to combat human and child trafficking.
- DNA Training: A DNA technique workshop was held for police officers to improve their skills in investigating sexual harassment cases involving women and children.
- Cybercrime Control: Since 2021, 14 Cyber Crime and Economic Offence Police Stations have been established. The Cyber Police Station at Crime Branch, Cuttack, has been operational since 2006.
- Capacity Building: Continuous training programs are held to strengthen the investigation capabilities of officers, particularly in cybercrime.
- Economic Crimes & Organized Crime: The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) and Special Task Force (STF) are focused on controlling economic and organized crimes in the state.
- Highway Patrols: To curb road crimes and reduce accidents, the government has introduced highway patrols along four National Highways and one State Highway using retired officers and patrol vehicles.
- Police K-9 Units: Belgian Malinois dogs are being purchased, trained, and deployed to assist in crime investigations.
- Crime Tracking Network: The Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) has been enhanced with six modules for improved monitoring and investigation.
- Around-the-Clock Patrolling: Continuous police patrolling is maintained across the state.
- CCTV Surveillance: Surveillance systems using CCTV cameras are being set up in key areas to control crime.
- Traffic and Suspect Monitoring: State highway vehicles are being regularly checked, with increased vigilance during night-time blockades and checkpoints.
- Interstate Collaboration: Regular meetings are held for interstate cooperation, facilitating the exchange of information regarding criminals.
- Naxal Cooperation: Special meetings focused on Naxal activities are held to monitor Maoist movements and activities across state borders.
- Warrant Drives: Police stations are conducting regular warrant drives to track down absconding criminals.
- Surveillance of Businesses: Hotels, dhabas, and shops along highways are monitored for suspicious activities.
- Intra-state Information Sharing: Police stations share information about intra-state criminals and take necessary actions based on their movements.
- Special Operations: Periodic special operations are carried out to execute warrants and apprehend offenders.
- Habitual Offenders: Habitual offenders are booked under Section 110 of the CrPC and the National Security Act (NSA) to prevent recidivism.
The Chief Minister emphasized that these measures aim to strengthen crime control and ensure the safety of the public across the state.
