Dharwad: Labour and District In-charge Minister Santosh Lad has instructed the police department to take strong measures against individuals and groups involved in and supporting organized crime in Dharwad district, including the city.
Addressing the police gathering, anti-narcotics, national highway, and traffic department officials at the new auditorium of the District Secretariat, Mr. Lad emphasized the need for the police to adopt a tough approach in controlling criminal activities in the district. He also stressed on the importance of coordination in tackling organized crimes and urged the officials to maintain friendly relations with the public at every police station.
Mr. Lad highlighted the growing concern of drug peddling among youth and called for the arrest and prosecution of those involved in such activities. He also advised organizing awareness programs in schools and colleges about the dangers of drug abuse and crimes associated with it.
The city of Hubli has over a hundred colleges, including engineering, dental, medical, and other professional colleges, with several hostels around them. Mr. Lad pointed out the need for increased vigilance and unexpected raids to deter criminal activities. He stressed that the police force should become a powerful weapon to guide the younger generation on the right path and prevent them from going astray.
Today’s meeting served as an advisory session, with future plans for the police department to tackle drug-related crimes and organized criminal activities. The officials will organize awareness programs to educate the public about the measures taken by the police to combat such crimes.
The police department needs to become more proactive. Children should be warned against engaging in and facilitating illegal activities, especially in the sale and distribution of intoxicants. Licensed vendors must not engage in illicit activities. In cases of such offenses, the authorities should immediately follow the appropriate legal procedures and revoke licenses, as suggested by the officials.
To combat organized crimes in the district, it is essential to control the sale of illicit substances and ensure smooth transportation in the city. We need complete cooperation to make our district, particularly Dharwad, a model region for others to follow. These efforts should not be seen as mere duties by the officials but driven by genuine affection and pride for our district.
Senior police officers, including Superintendent Guru Dutt Hegde, emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and order in the rural areas of the district. They stressed the need to take strong action against unauthorized middlemen and firmly deal with various criminal cases. Proper documentation of crimes and prompt reporting through the 112 helpline are crucial in tackling criminal activities. The officers are committed to improving infrastructure, including expanding roads and building connecting routes in neighboring villages, to enhance traffic control and reduce accidents.
Assistant Police Commissioner Dr. Gopal Ullagaddi reported that 74 different types of criminal cases have been recorded in the urban areas until 2023, with 33 cases successfully resolved. Efforts are underway to resolve the remaining cases swiftly.
During the meeting, Municipal Commissioner Dr. Eshwar Ullagaddi, Deputy Police Commissioner K. Prashanth Kumar, and Divisional Control Officers of Karnataka Highway Corporation, including Shashidhar Channappa Gowdar, were also present.
