Bhubaneswar, Aug 21 (IANS) Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Vinaytosh Mishra on Friday directed police officials to step up security and preventive measures across the state ahead of the upcoming festive season, while calling for strict action against habitual and organised criminals.

Addressing a high-level review meeting at the State Police Headquarters in Cuttack, Mishra reviewed the prevailing law and order situation, crime control, sensitive areas, major crimes and police service delivery. Inspectors General/Deputy IGs of all ranges and Superintendents of Police (SPs) of all districts joined the meeting through video conferencing.

The DGP directed police personnel to listen patiently to every complainant visiting police stations, treat them with respect and ensure impartial and prompt investigation of complaints. He also stressed regular attendance of police officers and personnel at their offices and improvement in the functioning of police stations and delivery of police services. Mishra directed SDPOs to regularly visit police stations under their jurisdiction and supervise their functioning.

He also called for stronger intelligence gathering to obtain advance information about possible crimes and untoward incidents and take preventive measures accordingly.

With several major festivals, including Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, Janmashtami, Ganesh Puja, Nuakhai, Durga Puja, Diwali/Kali Puja, Amla Navami, Panchuka and Bali Yatra, scheduled between August and November, the DGP stressed advance security preparations to ensure their peaceful and safe observance.

He also directed the officials to ensure adequate deployment of police personnel at sensitive locations, effective crowd and traffic management, regular peace committee meetings and continuous coordination with local representatives and different community groups.

The DGP also called for constant vigilance in communally sensitive areas and preventive measures to avert any untoward incident.

On crime control, Mishra ordered stringent legal action against habitual and organised criminals. He directed increased naka checking and patrolling to curb illegal cattle transportation and illegal firecracker manufacturing, besides regular raids and vehicle checks against illegal mining and mineral transportation.

The DGP also directed police to keep a close watch on rumours and provocative, objectionable and misleading content circulated on social media and take prompt legal action against such activities.

To strengthen the fight against cybercrime, Mishra directed officials to improve the functioning of cyber police stations and make investigation of cybercrime cases more effective. He asked district SPs to visit cyber police stations once every week and review their functioning.

He further directed all district SPs to regularly organise peace committee meetings, strengthen public outreach and take preventive measures to avert possible untoward incidents.

Mishra advised police personnel at all levels to maintain better coordination and communication while discharging their duties to improve police efficiency and public welfare services.

–IANS

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