Kataka: The responsibilities of the police are no longer limited to crime control but encompass a wide range of challenges, including terrorism, Maoism, organised crime, cybercrime and drug trafficking, Odisha DGP (in-charge) Vinaytosh Mishra said Wednesday.
Addressing the 67th Police Commemoration Day at the state police headquarters in Kataka, Mishra said police also had to ensure the safety of women and children, manage traffic and maintain law and order.
He paid tribute to police personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty for the security and honour of the nation and expressed condolences to their families.
In a post on X, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said, “On Police Commemoration Day, we pay tribute to our brave police personnel for their courage, dedication and unwavering commitment to public service. Their sacrifices and tireless efforts safeguard our citizens and uphold the rule of law. The nation remains deeply grateful for their invaluable service and sacrifice.”
CM Majhi also paid tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose on the occasion of Azad Hind Diwas, observed to mark the foundation day of the Azad Hind Force.
“On the establishment day of the Azad Hind Force, heartfelt salutations to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the heroic soldiers of the Army,” the Chief Minister said.
Police honoured the martyrs by performing a ceremonial ‘shok shastra’ (reversing of arms as a mark of mourning) and observing a two-minute silence.
The National Police Commemoration Day is observed in memory of 10 CRPF personnel who were killed on this day in 1959 in an ambush by Chinese troops in Ladakh’s Hot Spring area.
This year, 154 personnel from various state police forces and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) laid down their lives in the line of duty, Mishra said.
“Their sacrifice would remain an eternal source of inspiration for the entire police force,” he said, paying tribute to Odisha Police and paramilitary personnel killed during anti-Maoist operations in the state.
Their courage, sacrifice and sustained efforts had helped counter Maoist violence and establish peace in the state, he said, while acknowledging the sacrifices and patience of their families.
PTI
