Odisha ‘by and large’ peaceful in 2014, says Naveen

Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Cuttack, Jan 8:

The law and order situation in Odisha has remained by and large peaceful in the year 2014, said Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik while addressing the concluding session of the 58^th Senior Police Officers’ Conference here today.

Patnaik said there have been zero casualties on the part of security forces in the state in left wing extremist violence, whereas six extremists have died during exchange of gun fire.

While emphasizing on zero tolerance for crimes against women, the Chief Minister said; “These cases must be dealt with very firmly, and should be personally monitored by SP. Whenever required Special Public Prosecutor should be engaged to expedite these cases”.

The government has placed funds for construction of a Reception Centre and a Mahila Sishu Desk in 375 police stations. All the police stations of the state will be covered under the scheme in phases, he added.

Describing Nabakalebar festival of Lord Jagannath to be held this year as a challenging task, the Chief Minister said the state police are required to play a major role with its limited resources.  Patnaik said; “The state government has made funds available to create new infrastructure for police for better crowd and traffic management.   I hope the police will be able to handle the task effectively with proper planning and coordination”.

“Many police personnel make supreme sacrifices while serving for the nation. Their family members go through a lot of difficulties after the death of their sole bread earner. Therefore, concerned SPs should personally look into these issues, and ensure all necessary provisions for the rehabilitation of their families and other benefits,” Patnaik said.

Expressing concern over the low conviction rate in cases handled by police, the Chief Minister pointed out; “Efforts should be made in every possible way to bring improvement in the conviction rates.”