Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Saturday said the khaki uniform worn by policemen is synonymous with sacrifice.
“The police uniform stands for sacrifice and the three-lion symbol stands for the sovereignty of the country,” he underlined.
Addressing police personnel on the Police Commemoration Day after taking the salute at Indira Gandhi Municipal Stadium here, the CM assured government’s support to families of police personnel who have sacrificed their lives while discharging their duties.
Referring to recent violent incidents at Angallu and Punganuru, he accused certain groups of disturbing peace in society. “They are anti-social and police need to deal with them sternly,” he underlined.
The Chief Minister pointed out that even courts of law and judicial officers are being heckled and trolled on social media and in TV debates for not getting judgements in their favour. He said such elements are also anti-social.
Jagan Mohan Reddy called for redefining of the words “anti-social elements.” He maintained that gangs that try to take the law into their hands in the name of media freedom, human rights and democracy are also anti-socials.
On the day, the CM handed over a cheque of Rs 30 lakh to the wife of G. Narender, the police officer killed by anti-social elements during the Ganesh festival at Agiripalli in Eluru district.
“While being citizen-friendly and acting with a human touch, police should not compromise on maintaining law and order and ensuring safety of girls and women, especially those of the oppressed classes,” he underlined.
The Chief Minister disclosed that an insurance scheme for families of police is in offing, He said talks have concluded with the top management of SBI to provide insurance to families of police personnel to the tune of Rs 30 lakh to Rs 75 lakh. The insurance will materialise soon, he stated.
Jagan Mohan Reddy regretted that the state government’s efforts to appoint 6,500 new police personnel, including 450 sub-inspectors, have been marred due to legal battles. He said he has asked the DGP to take steps for clearing the legal hurdles at the earliest.
The CM laid a wreath at the Police Memorial and observed a two-minute silence in memory of martyrs among police.
Home minister Taneti Vanita, chief secretary Dr. K.S. Jawahar Reddy, DGP K.V. Rajendranath Reddy and senior officials also participated in the programme.
