Police must work transparently to increase conviction rate: CM

Two days after the announcement, Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Monday passed an instruction to police to identify the old unsolved cases.

The Chief Minister, followed by a review meeting, instructed the Tripura Police to identify old unsolved cases, police station-wise, in order to deliver justice to the victims' families.

He also asked the senior police officers to regularly visit various areas and police stations.

Dr Saha, who also holds the Home portfolio, addressed the media after the review meeting on law and order at Police Headquarters in Agartala on Monday.

"Regarding the law-and-order situation, I have held an important meeting. This is the third such meeting I've held. There was a time when people used to fear whether they would receive justice after visiting police stations. I emphasized that police behaviour must be appropriate when people visit the police station. When people come in distress, the police must address their problems properly, including filing an appropriate FIR, etc. If anyone is unable to file a proper FIR, the police should assist them and provide advice on how they can obtain justice. I also emphasized the 'Prayaas' program by Tripura Police," said Dr Saha.

He mentioned that Tripura Police has completed 150 years of service, which is a rare and proud achievement for the state.

"We must remain sustainable. Tripura is used as a corridor, and I highlighted that Tripura ranks highest in the destruction and seizure of narcotics in the Northeast. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah have declared a policy of zero tolerance, and we must put an end to these old practices. We need to ensure proper monitoring of NDPS cases. I also mentioned that actions have been taken against some clubs for forceful collection of subscriptions, but the opposition is emphasizing these incidents to create the impression that Tripura lacks law and order. We are addressing this issue," he said.

The Chief Minister also directed the Tripura Police that all senior officers, including the DGP and his subordinates, must visit various areas and police stations to stay informed and monitor the situation.

"We have given Tripura Police a free hand and do not interfere with their work. Criminals have no religion, and there will be no compromise with them. We must work to increase the conviction rate, and for that, we need to maintain good relationships with advocates. I will also meet with them. I have asked the police to identify all old unsolved cases, police station-wise, because if anyone has not received justice, how is that acceptable? We will reopen these old cases and work accordingly," said Dr Saha. He further stated that everyone must fulfil their responsibilities properly and work transparently.

During the press briefing, Chief Secretary JK Sinha and DGP Amitabh Ranjan were also present.