Kolkata, 13 November (H.S.) : An important Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between the central and state governments as the state administration takes concrete steps toward the modernization and infrastructural improvement of the police force. As part of this initiative, the 'Police Mitra' app was launched in Bengal to facilitate the general public. Addressing journalists at the Nabanna Sabhaghar on Friday, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari delivered a strong message on upgrading the policing system and reiterated the government's commitment to equipping the police force with state-of-the-art equipment.

The primary objective behind launching this new application is to make the police force more citizen-friendly. Through this app, common citizens will be able to easily access information regarding which police officers are deployed in their respective areas and understand the specific responsibilities of the beat officers. The Chief Minister emphasized that the public should have complete information about their local police and beat officers. This step has been taken to enhance direct communication between the law enforcement agency and the public. Adhikari expressed optimism that this initiative would bring greater transparency to administrative operations.

Following the change of guard in the state, several new appointments have been made in the police department under the tenure of the BJP government. The Chief Minister had previously outlined his vision to completely overhaul the police department, which includes the provision of modern equipment and new vehicles. However, on Friday, he acknowledged that despite the expanding scope of duties, the state still faces a shortage of adequate police personnel. He stressed that merely formulating plans is not enough and that their implementation at the grassroots level is of utmost importance. The state government is taking necessary steps in this direction, with the Home Secretary and the police team closely monitoring the progress.

Reflecting on the tenure of the previous government, the Chief Minister remarked that there was a severe lack of coordination between the central and state governments at that time. He asserted that the current BJP-led state administration is fully willing to work in tandem with the Centre. He clarified that the state government has no intention of concealing any information related to security and administration. To foster this improved coordination, joint meetings between the two entities have already been conducted.

Noting that West Bengal shares international borders, Adhikari underscored the need for a special focus on security arrangements. Highlighting the ongoing administrative and infrastructural reforms, the Chief Minister appealed to the public to grant the government at least three more months to demonstrate clear and improved results on the ground.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh