Chandigarh, Nov. 5 — Haryana Police on Wednesday rolled out a 16-day statewide crackdown, Operation Trackdown, targeting fugitives involved in recent shooting incidents, officials said. The initiative, running until Nov. 20, establishes a clear chain of accountability from police station chiefs to state leadership.
Under the directive, field units are tasked with preparing and acting on lists of the “worst offenders” in each jurisdiction and using all available legal measures, including bail cancellation, provisions for organised crime, and seizure of assets allegedly acquired from illegal activity, Director General of Police OP Singh said.
“The absconding accused in gun-related crimes must be put behind bars without delay,” Singh said. He added that those yet to be identified should be traced through standard investigative tools and human intelligence, while known absconders are to be pursued “from the depths” until apprehended.
The directive also addresses individuals already out on bail, instructing police to update their history sheets and seek cancellation of bail if they are found to be active in criminal activity. “Where criminal activity is systematic and networked, organised crime sections are to be invoked and assets allegedly acquired from crime identified and seized,” Singh noted. Action will be taken against those who shelter, protect, or finance offenders.
Accountability has been clearly defined across all levels. Station house officers (SHOs) and deputy superintendents of police (DSPs) are responsible for preventing such crimes in their areas. Each SHO/DSP team must compile a “worst 5” list for their jurisdiction and ensure that the listed offenders are in custody. At district and zone levels, a “worst 10” list will be maintained, with superintendents of police (SPs), deputy commissioners of police (DCPs), and commissioners of police (CPs) responsible for outcomes.
The state’s Special Task Force (STF) will maintain a statewide “worst 20” list, overseeing operations to arrest these offenders. The directive emphasises that listed individuals must be prevented from committing fresh crimes and held accountable for past offences, with officers answerable if crimes recur.
Inspector General of Police, Crime, Rakesh Arya, has been assigned to coordinate the operation across districts and specialised units. Citizens have been urged to share information with him directly at +91 90342 90495, with a guarantee of confidentiality.
The operation also seeks to strengthen cooperation with neighbouring states and union territories, including Punjab, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Delhi, and Chandigarh, to facilitate tracking, arrests, and custody transfers.
Officials have been asked to use public engagement as a preventive tool. “Evening ‘mic-check’ sessions will be held at police stations and community spaces to educate citizens on women’s safety, risky behaviour, and ways predators lure youngsters,” Singh said. Schools are also being roped in, with officers instructed to meet principals and headmasters to discuss safeguarding children from drugs and exploitation.
