Mumbai Bureau: In a firm stance against rising illegal activities in State, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Law and Order (Maharashtra) Chhering Dorje has directed all police unit commanders to demolish the illegal constructions of those found involved in illegal activities. IGP Dorje, an IPS officer of 2000 batch, who has served as IGP Nagpur Range, before taking reins as IGP L&O last year, stressed that Unit Commanders must take decisive action against a wide range of illegal activities within their jurisdiction. These include- the illegal sale of liquor, gambling (including Matka and Lottery), unregulated video parlours, the sale of Gutkha, illegal arms trade, Hookah parlours, illicit massage parlours, narcotics manufacturing and trafficking, dance bars, unlicensed clubs, illegal passenger transport, sand and coal mining, and human trafficking.
IGP Dorje also warned that if his office received information about illegal activities in any district or police unit, a squad from another district or police unit would be sent to take action. If such an action succeeds, the concerned unit commander would be held responsible. In a directive issued to the state police, IGP Dorje underlined that unit commanders must focus on shutting down illegal activities in their jurisdictions and adopt a zero-tolerance policy for the same. Directing the unit commanders to raid areas with illegal activities, IGP Dorje instructed them to take preventive measures against anti-social elements involved in illegal activities despite previous police actions. He further stated that the police must enlist the help of other government agencies to identify and demolish the illegal constructions of such individuals.
“Cancel the permits of vehicles used in illegal activities and seal the land being used for such purposes. Also, initiate preventive actions against those who are accomplices of the illegal den operators, to ensure that illegal activities do not flourish.” He also directed that a squad from a neighbouring police station be sent to adjacent areas to inspect whether illegal activities have been shut down or are still ongoing. The actions of the neighbouring police station’s squad should be supervised by an officer of the DCP or Addl SP rank, he instructed. Additionally, he directed a confidential inquiry into complaints of illegal activities received from the public. Unit commanders must review the number of complaints received regarding illegal activities, the actions taken, and whether illegal activities have resumed in areas where the police previously conducted raids.
IGP Dorje stated that if it is found that illegal activities continue despite the directive for stern action, disciplinary measures should be taken against the officer in charge of the concerned police station. “Supervisory officers such as SDPO/ACP are responsible for these matters, and their “Kasuri report” should also be checked, for which an inquiry should be conducted,” stated Dorje.
