Bhubaneswar, Sept. 29: How would you like to read Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s joint address to District Collectors and Superintendents of Police (SPs) held here on Saturday, September 28, 2024? What did he actually want to communicate?

If you have really heard him patiently, you must have noted that he very superbly outlined a comprehensive vision of his government for strengthening law enforcement, governance, and public security in the state.

Several key elements stand out in his speech, underscoring a commitment to making Odisha a more secure, inclusive, and vibrant state.

Strengthened coordination and zero tolerance approach

Majhi's call for "cohesive governance" and his emphasis on coordination between District Collectors and Superintendents of Police (SPs) is critical. Historically, administrative gaps or conflicts between local authorities and police departments can slow down governance and law enforcement efforts. By urging for closer cooperation and stating that differences will no longer be tolerated, Majhi is signaling intent to streamline bureaucracy and encourage unified action, which is essential for tackling crime and maintaining public order.

This message of unity and integration is important given Odisha's socio-political landscape, where effective governance is needed to address developmental challenges, including Maoist insurgency and socio-economic inequalities. The zero-tolerance stance toward crime also reflects the state's intention to adopt stricter measures against lawbreakers, ensuring that criminals are held accountable.

Efforts against Maoist insurgency

Majhi's speech notably acknowledges the success of Odisha's police and central security forces in curbing Maoist activities. Maoism has been a long-standing issue in Odisha, affecting development in many regions. The CM's appeal to Maoists to surrender and reintegrate into mainstream society aligns with a national policy to weaken the movement through both force and rehabilitation.

Majhi's reiteration of Union Home Minister Amit Shah's pledge to end Maoist activities by March 2026 adds weight to the government's aggressive timeline. His commitment to providing necessary support in the form of arms, ammunition, and other resources demonstrates that Odisha's government is prepared to intensify its operations to eradicate the threat in a time-bound manner.

Addressing violence against women and police accountability

The Chief Minister's focus on the low conviction rate in cases of violence against women is a sobering reminder of the gaps in the state's judicial and law enforcement systems. With only a 9.73 per cent conviction rate in cases between 2020 and 2022, Majhi is clearly concerned about the efficacy of the current system. By instructing the Director General of Police to gather district-wise data, Majhi shows intent to analyze and rectify the systemic flaws.

His personal experience with mistreatment at a police station, coupled with his call for empathetic policing, is a stark reminder that even those in power can experience the shortcomings of the system. The emphasis on improving police behavior, especially in cases involving women and children, highlights a shift toward more people-friendly policing. Majhi’s "Seva and Suraksha" (service and protection) mantra is an effort to redefine the police's role in society as a public ally rather than a distant authority.

Police reforms and welfare

Majhi's announcement of new resources for the police force, including additional four-wheelers for police stations and motorcycles for officers, reflects a commitment to improving the operational capabilities of law enforcement. This is crucial, as rural and under-resourced areas often suffer from inadequate policing infrastructure. His efforts to raise ten more Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) units and strengthen coastal police stations also point to a broad-based strategy to enhance public safety across different domains.

The advocacy for better wages for home guards and the focus on police morale are also critical for ensuring that law enforcement personnel are motivated and properly supported. Low wages and poor working conditions can contribute to corruption and inefficiency, so this focus on welfare reforms is timely.

Work culture and public service commitment

Majhi's call for a change in work culture, with a push for extended working hours and increased dedication among officials, illustrates his personal commitment to public service. By sharing his practice of working late into the night, he sets a high standard for others in the government to follow. This emphasis on personal responsibility, coupled with a broader appeal to transform Odisha into a prosperous state as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, positions Majhi as a leader focused on both accountability and ambition.

Focus on cybercrime and public awareness

Cybercrime is a growing threat across India, and Majhi’s praise of Odisha Police’s efforts in this domain indicates an awareness of its rising importance. However, alongside police operations, the CM stresses the need for public awareness campaigns to change the perception of police as allies. By fostering trust between law enforcement and citizens, Odisha's government aims to build a more secure society where people are encouraged to report crimes without fear.

Chief Minister Mohan Majhi's address reflects a multifaceted strategy to improve law enforcement, governance, and public welfare in Odisha. His calls for unity between district administrators and police, a zero-tolerance policy toward crime, empathy in policing, and the fight against Maoist insurgency are all part of a larger vision to create a safer, more prosperous state. His speech not only reassures the public of the government’s commitment to fighting crime but also places the onus on government officials and law enforcement to be more responsive, accountable, and effective.

The proposed reforms and initiatives, if implemented effectively, could lead to meaningful improvements in governance and public security, positioning Odisha as a state that prioritizes both law and order and citizen welfare.

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