Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Directs Police to Improve Investigation Standards, Demands Accountability
Declining Quality of Investigations a Major Concern, Says CM
Bengaluru, June 28 – Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed concern over the declining quality of police investigations despite a reduction in overall crime rates in the state. Addressing senior police officials during a review meeting at the Director General of Police’s office, he emphasized the need for immediate corrective measures.
“While there has been progress in handling certain cases, the overall standard of investigations has deteriorated,” Siddaramaiah said. He cited the example of a robbery suspect in Bidar who remains at large despite being identified five months ago. “Such lapses are unacceptable,” he added.
Footbridge Tragedy Exposes Intelligence Failures
Reflecting on the recent footbridge collapse in Bengaluru that claimed 11 lives, the Chief Minister revealed glaring intelligence failures.
“I have been an MLA since 1983 and later served as CM, but I have never witnessed such negligence. The Intelligence Department exists for a reason—yet they failed to provide accurate, timely information,” he said.
The tragedy unfolded by 3:50 PM, but officials reported only one death even when questioned at 5:45 PM. “By then, 11 people had already died. Had we received correct information earlier, we could have canceled the stadium event and saved lives,” Siddaramaiah stated.
Officials Must Act Against Hate Speech, Communal Violence
Expressing frustration over delayed action against hate-mongers, the CM questioned why authorities in Dakshina Kannada district were not proactively curbing communal tensions.
“Why are communal clashes and murders concentrated in Dakshina Kannada? Why is no action taken against those disrupting peace?” he demanded. “If police do not act, the government will have to intervene.”
He directed officials to identify and strictly prosecute anyone inciting violence, regardless of their influence.
Police Reforms: Vacancies to Be Filled, More Support Promised
To strengthen law enforcement, Siddaramaiah announced:
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Recruitment Drive: Filling vacant police posts within two months.
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Increased Funding: Adequate budgetary support for modernization and welfare.
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Community Policing: Stations must be citizen-friendly while instilling fear of law among criminals.
“Democracy thrives when justice is impartial. The police must ensure fairness for all—powerful or vulnerable,” he asserted.
Accountability Non-Negotiable, Says CM
Addressing recent suspensions of senior officers, Siddaramaiah admitted discomfort but stressed accountability.
“It pains me to suspend officers, but if mistakes are proven, action is necessary,” he said. “We must uphold constitutional values—public safety is paramount.”
The meeting was attended by Home Minister G. Parameshwara, Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh, DGP Dr. A.M. Salim, and other senior officials.
Key Directives:
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Efficiency: Expedite charge sheets in criminal cases.
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Transparency: Ensure real-time reporting of critical incidents.
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Zero Tolerance: Strict action against hate speech and unrest.
“The police must serve the people—their safety and justice are our priority,” the CM concluded.
