Panchkula, 11 January 2025: Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini instructed Haryana’s police to intensify their crackdown on gangsters operating through local henchmen, granting Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujit Kapur a “free hand” to dismantle criminal networks.
At a crime review meeting in Panchkula, Saini called for swift action, saying, “Those engaged in criminal activities must be eliminated, and their backbone broken.”
The meeting brought together senior police officials as Saini urged collaboration with the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to track overseas gang leaders. “We’ve achieved success in some extradition cases, and efforts are underway for others,” he noted.
Haryana has seen a rise in gangster-related crimes. UK-based Kapil Sangwan, alias Nandu, has been implicated in high-profile murders, including the assassination of Indian National Lok Dal leader Nafe Singh Rathi and a triple killing at a Panchkula resort.
Himanshu, alias Bhau, linked to extortion rackets, is in Portugal, while Lawrence Bishnoi’s associate Rohit Godara claimed responsibility for a businessman’s killing in Rohtak.
Despite this surge, Saini reported a drop in Haryana’s overall crime rate and praised progress in combating cybercrime and violence against women.
Haryana Police’s efforts in tackling cybercrime recently earned them a national award from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Saini added, “Performing officers will be rewarded, and those showing negligence will face consequences.”
Saini emphasized the government’s anti-drug initiatives, targeting over 3,000 villages to reduce substance abuse, with a goal of achieving 70% drug-free villages by 2025. “Drug peddlers will face strict legal action,” he stated.
Plans to address illegal immigration were also discussed. Saini proposed drafting a law during the budget session and directed officials to identify and deport undocumented immigrants, including Rohingya refugees, after verification.
The CM also announced a dedicated police battalion for Nuh district to bolster law enforcement. “The SP and District Collector will finalize land for the project,” Saini confirmed.
In adherence to BJP’s manifesto, the state government has allocated ₹300 crore to strengthen the police force. Saini requested officials to submit a detailed plan for funding utilization.
Additionally, he cautioned the media against publicizing criminals’ photographs, warning that such visuals might influence young minds.