In a recent address during Police Commemoration Day in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that maintaining law and order, and instilling fear among criminals, is a primary goal of his administration. Speaking at the Reserve Police Lines event, Adityanath highlighted the crucial role the police force plays in upholding peace and security in the state, and stressed that his government is working relentlessly to enhance the police’s capabilities and ensure a safer environment for its citizens.
The Chief Minister spoke in detail about the various initiatives taken to improve law enforcement across the state. These measures include enhancing police morale, providing them with modern resources, and equipping them to handle complex situations. This reflects the state’s zero-tolerance policy towards crime, which has resulted in decisive actions against criminals, gangsters, and members of the mafia. Under the Gangster Act alone, over 77,811 criminals have been impacted, with 923 arrested, and illegal assets worth ₹4,057 crore seized. Such actions aim to dismantle criminal networks and take away the power that gangs have exerted over public and private property.
During the event, Adityanath paid homage to the Uttar Pradesh Police personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty. He specifically mentioned two police officers who were martyred in the 2023-2024 period. These officers, he said, exemplify the dedication and sacrifice of the entire force, whose courage continues to inspire those in uniform to perform their duties with unwavering devotion. “The supreme sacrifice of our brave police personnel will inspire us to continue on the path of duty with full dedication,” he noted solemnly.
The Chief Minister also credited the police for their significant role in ensuring peaceful proceedings during two critical recent events: the consecration ceremony of Lord Ram at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi in Ayodhya, and the peaceful conduct of the 2024 Lok Sabha General Elections. Both events posed potential security challenges, yet the Uttar Pradesh police rose to the occasion, displaying extraordinary discipline and professionalism.
On a national level, Union Home Minister Amit Shah echoed these sentiments on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day. Addressing a gathering of senior officers and the families of fallen police personnel, Shah vowed that the sacrifices of these officers would not be forgotten. He reiterated the government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism, drug trafficking, and other anti-India activities. Shah remarked on the security forces’ progress in controlling terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir over the past decade but emphasized that the battle is ongoing, and the government remains committed to completely eradicating terrorism.
Commemorations were held across the country, with senior officials from various states paying their respects to fallen police officers. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu took part in a commemorative parade in Vijayawada, while in Mumbai, Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar and Maharashtra DGP Rashmi Shukla led the tributes by laying wreaths at memorials. The annual Police Commemoration Day, observed on October 21, serves as a reminder of the ultimate sacrifices made by police personnel across the nation. The main event is traditionally held at the National Police Memorial, presided over by the Union Home Minister, where tributes are paid to those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The focus on both Uttar Pradesh’s local law enforcement challenges and the broader national security threats faced by India underscores the importance of a capable and respected police force. Chief Minister Adityanath’s acknowledgment of the police’s role in maintaining order, alongside Home Minister Shah’s reaffirmation of their significance in combating terrorism, highlights the need for continued support and reform within the police forces to ensure the safety and stability of both the state and the country.