Drug-Free India by 2029: Amit Shah Reviews Security and Law Order in Gujarat
Home Minister Amit Shah holds a high-level security review in Gujarat, emphasizing a Drug-Free India by 2029 and tackling cybercrime and border security.
Union Minister of Home Affairs and Cooperation, Amit Shah, has set a bold target for the nation, emphasizing the goal of achieving a Drug-Free India by 2029. This directive came during a high-level comprehensive review meeting held in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, where the Home Minister scrutinized sensitive matters regarding public safety and law and order ahead of the Diwali festivities.
The meeting saw the presence of Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, alongside senior officials from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, the State Home Department, and various security agencies.
A Wide-Ranging Security Audit
The review was exhaustive, covering a vast array of internal security and administrative challenges. Minister Amit Shah provided critical guidance on several fronts to ensure the state remains secure and efficient. Key areas of discussion included:
- National Security: Counter-terrorism efforts, border and coastal security, and the status of the 'Vibrant Village Programme'.
- Legal and Judicial Reforms: The implementation of the CAA, the Census, the criminal justice system, and the functioning of special courts.
- Police Modernization: Enhancements in police infrastructure, the Agniveer scheme, and prison administration.
- Public Safety: Disaster management, forensic affairs, and inter-state cooperation.
Tackling Modern Threats: Cybercrime and Narcotics
With the rise of digital threats, a significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to cybercrime measures. Officials deliberated on the deployment of 'Cyber Commandos', the 1930 helpline, and the establishment of the S4C and the Central Investigation Analytical Repository. The use of the iMOT portal for regular data updates was also highlighted.
On the front of narcotics control, the Home Minister reviewed NDPS (Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) cases, reinforcing the urgency of the mission to eradicate drug abuse across the country by 2029.
Addressing State-Specific Concerns
The Union Home Minister did not shy away from discussing pressing local issues affecting the people of Gujarat. He offered directives and suggestions regarding:
- The current drought situation and the concerns of farmers.
- Economic offences and the issue of encroachments.
- The situation in border districts and the status of illegal Bangladeshi nationals.
- Matters related to 'Love Jihad' and POCSO cases.
Strengthening the Judicial and Forensic Framework
To ensure swifter justice, the meeting focused on strengthening the state's judiciary. Discussions revolved around increasing the number of public prosecutors, establishing evening courts, and expediting legal proceedings by relying more heavily on technical evidence.
The government is also pushing for technological integration in investigations. Updates were provided on the 'e-Sakshya' application, e-summons, and the Medico-Legal Examination and Post-Mortem Reporting System (MedLEaPR). Additionally, the deployment of mobile forensic vans and the Investigation Tracking System for Sexual Offences (ITSSO) were reviewed to improve conviction rates.
Disaster Readiness and Urban Planning
The review extended to the state's ability to handle emergencies. The operational readiness and capacity building of the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were analyzed, along with the utilization of the State Disaster Management Fund (SDMF) and the National Disaster Mitigation Fund.
Specific attention was given to urban infrastructure, particularly the flood mitigation schemes and projects currently underway in Ahmedabad to prevent urban flooding during heavy monsoons.