PM Narendra Modi Engages DGPs and IGPs on Policing and National Security Challenges

Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in discussions on policing and security with top police officers on Saturday. The 59th DGPs/IGPs conference, held in Bhubaneswar, saw around 250 officers attending in person, while over 200 joined virtually. Modi shared on X about the productive first day of the conference. The event focuses on critical national security issues like counter-terrorism, coastal security, and new criminal laws.

The conference aims to formulate and share professional practices for tackling crime control and law-and-order challenges. It also addresses internal security threats. The Prime Minister encourages open discussions, fostering new ideas among participants. Unique features this year include yoga sessions, business meetings, break-out sessions, and thematic dining tables, as stated by the PMO.

Focus on Emerging Security Challenges

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the conference on Friday. He emphasised the need to address emerging security challenges along the eastern border and trends in urban policing. Shah's remarks are significant due to unrest in Bangladesh following political changes. Reports of attacks on minorities there have been a concern for New Delhi.

Shah expressed satisfaction with improvements in Jammu and Kashmir's security situation, the northeast, and areas affected by left-wing extremism. He highlighted that three new criminal laws have shifted the focus from punishment to justice-oriented approaches, rooted in Indian tradition. Shah also advocated for a zero-tolerance strategy against terrorism.

Platform for Open Discussions

The conference provides a platform for senior police officers to discuss national security issues and operational challenges. Officers are tasked with presentations on topics like counter-terrorism, online fraud, cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, pro-Khalistani activities, and left-wing extremism. This allows for identifying action points and monitoring progress presented to the Prime Minister annually.

Since 2014, Modi has shown keen interest in the DGP conference. The event includes free-flowing thematic discussions over meals. This format allows senior police officials to share views and recommendations on key policing issues with the Prime Minister.

Conference Locations Over the Years

Before 2014, the annual meet was held in New Delhi. After Modi assumed office, it was decided to host it outside the capital. The Ministry of Home Affairs and Intelligence Bureau organised it at various locations: Guwahati (2014), Dhordo (2015), Hyderabad (2016), Tekanpur (2017), Kevadiya (2018), Pune (2019), Lucknow (2021), Pusa, Delhi (2023), and Jaipur (January 2024).

The conference is a culmination of extensive deliberations involving police and intelligence officers from district to national levels on identified themes. It offers an opportunity for senior police officials to present their perspectives to PM Modi on critical policing matters impacting the country.