AAP MLAs Criticise Delhi Police Over Rising Extortion Gangs Targeting Traders

The AAP MLAs criticised the Delhi Police and Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena during a recent assembly session. They highlighted the increasing extortion threats faced by city traders from gangsters. The legislators called for the reinstatement of police station-level committees to combat these crimes, sharing examples from their constituencies.

According to Beejwasan MLA BS Joon, traders are terrified and have lost trust in the Delhi Police. He stated that they are forced to negotiate directly with gangsters, paying extortion money for their safety. Joon urged the lieutenant governor to address this fear among traders.

Concerns Over Police Effectiveness

Rajesh Rishi, another AAP MLA, echoed these concerns, noting that the situation has deteriorated and public confidence in the police has waned. He appealed to the Speaker for measures to provide relief to affected traders. Kondli MLA Kuldeep Kumar suggested reviving police station-level monitoring committees, which were previously chaired by local MLAs and effective in crime prevention.

Somnath Bharti pointed out that while district-level police committees are operational, those at the police station level are not. He questioned why these committees remain inactive amid rising crime rates in the city. Bharti emphasised the need for accountability from the lieutenant governor regarding this issue.

Impact on Public Safety

Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj raised concerns about the police's reputation, claiming that women victims of crime hesitate to report incidents at police stations. He described the law and order situation as chaotic and demanded an explanation from the LG on why police station-level committees are not being established.

Leader of Opposition Vijender Gupta stressed the importance of zero tolerance towards crime. He insisted that the police must effectively dismantle gangs involved in extorting money from city traders and businessmen.

The assembly session underscored a pressing need for action to restore public trust in law enforcement and ensure safety for all citizens. The call for reinstating local monitoring committees reflects a desire for more community involvement in tackling crime.