Dr. Kalam addresses IPS Trainee Officers

Amritsar/ 26.07.2008
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, former President of India, addressed IPS trainee Officers. Dr. Kalam was here in the holy city to attend some programmes related to social cause. He also met students of various schools informally. The officer trainees came to Amritsar regarding cultural cum educational tour from National Police Academy Hyderabad.

SSP Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh took this coincidence as an opportunity to organise an interactive session with Dr. Kalam for the benefit of the Trainee Officers. Dr. Kalam also took this opportunity for the good of the country. He asked the officers to maintain values and ethical standards in policing to help India to become a role model. He emphasised on self discipline and character building for the officers so that they can be able to work for the common people.
He also put emphasis on the use of new technologies for the convenience of the common citizens. He appreciated the efforts made by Amritsar Police to lodge FIRs on the basis of information received through e-mail. He stressed upon the need of providing justice on the doorsteps of the citizens and the police can play pivotal role in this.

He also administered oath to the officers ‘to perform with integrity and to gain courage to succeed with integrity’ to work for the poorest section of the society.

Giving importance to ‘knowledge’ he said that Knowledge is the most valuable wealth in the global village. In the words of Dr. Kalam:
“Learning gives creativity
Creativity leads to thinking
Thinking provides knowledge
Knowledge makes you great”

This was a very interactive and useful session and the officers also asked a number of queries. It was an overwhelming experience for the officers. At this occasion Mr. Ajay Kumar Nand, Assistant Director of National Police Academy Hyderabad was also present besides Amritsar SSP Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh.

Amritsar gets Traffic Control Room

Amritsar/ 19.07.2008
Amritsar Police has set up Traffic Control Room for the convenience of citizens. It was inaugurated by Sh. Param Pal Singh Sidhu, DIG Border Range. Addressing the officers, the DIG stressed upon implementing latest technologies to streamline the traffic system of the holy city. Implementation of basic traffic rules and inculcating civic sense in the citizens are our top priorities in the changing scenario. Besides SSP Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, officers of traffic wing and SP Surinder Singh, SP Surjit Singh, SP SS Mann, DSP Balkar Singh, DSP Ranbir Singh, DSP Gurmit Singh and a number of SHOs were present at this occasion.
At this occasion, the DIG also flagged off two ambulance vans which will be kept ready round the clock. These ambulance vans will be sent in case of any accident or any kind of emergency. The ambulances will carry first aid boxes and other equipments. Each ambulance will be headed by an officer of the rank of ASI assisted by 4 constables in each shift. Two shifts have been made for round the clock supervision.
SSP Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh said that a dedicated phone line has been started to facilitate the citizens. The number is 0183-2210300. In case of any emergency, accident or traffic jam, our citizens can utilise this number for Police help. Special wireless room has also been set up in this control room. This control room will work in close coordination with the main Police Control Room.
A quick Reaction Team has also been set up which will be sent in case of any serious crime is reported in the city. Whenever a serious crime will be reported QRT will be sent to the place of occurrence in addition to force from the concerned Police Station. The QRT will be equipped with all necessary instruments including investigation kit. The team will be headed by an officer of the rank of ASI well versed in Investigation and also in crowd control. The QRT has been provided wireless sets and Mobile Phone. The QRT will assist the Police of concerned Police Station in emergent situations.
A separate room has been earmarked for Honorary Traffic Wardens who are working with the police in traffic management. The District Police wish for cooperation from the citizens to streamline traffic system in the city.

How to get Untrace Report

Dear Citizens

You will be happy to know that in the last two months more than 100 stolen vehicles were recovered and handed over to the rightful owners by organising educative seminars in various Police Station and Police Posts. Recently we organised similar seminars in PS A Division, PS Galliara, PP Kot Khalsa and PP Durgiana. Even superdari orders from courts were obtained by the Police with a view to avoid inconvenience to the citizens.

However to facilitate our citizens who want to get untraced report regarding theft of vehicles and other articles where recoveries have not been made so far, we have made arrangements to avoid inconvenience.

With Regards------- Senior Superrintendent of Police, Amritsar

· How to get untraced report?
Please visit the CPRC counter in the SSP office.
Take the format, fill it up and submit the same to the officer present on duty.
You can collect your untraced report after 15 days from the same counter.
You are not required to visit the Police Stations for this purpose.
· You can also send the proforma through E-mail on policehelp100@gmail.com

Application to get Untrace Report

Name and parentage of the applicant:
Address:
Phone Number:
Email:
Description of the stolen property:
(Model, type and Reg. No., in case of vehicles)
FIR No. Date Under Section
Police Station

Signature of the applicant

Tips for Safety and Security of Tourists

Amritsar is an important tourist destination and also a transit point, where from international and national tourists make onward journey to various other places. Amritsar is emerging as a tourism hub and it is one of the most visited places in the world. Everyday around one lakh people visit this place. A large number of devotees from other sates of India as well as from the foreign countries come to pay obeisance to Harmandir Sahib and Durgiana Tirth. It is the need of hour to safeguard the interests of the Tourists as they face several problems related to transport, accommodations, getting tourism related information and many times they fall victims to cheats and touts losing their belongings and valuables.
Amritsar Tourism Police has been deputed at five points round the clock, namely Golden Temple, Airport, Bus Stand, Railway Station, and Attari Border. This is a part of service oriented policing which has been the top priority of Amritsar City Police and an attempt to present the Police as people friendly, especially to the tourist, who visits the city in large numbers from home and abroad.

General Precautions for the Tourists
A few simple precautions should be sufficient to ensure your safety.
1. Take help from Tourism police and other police officers on duty as per need.
2. Leave valuables and important papers, such as jewelry, foregn currency and passports, secured in your hotel's safe deposit box. Never leave these items unattended in your room or carry large sums of cash and valuables on your person.
3. Carry your wallet in an inside jacket pocket or side trouser pocket, never in the rear pocket.
4. Always keep a photocopy of your passport and visa while moving in the city.
5. Carry credit cards and cash in your pockets.
6. Do not move in any unknown vehicle. Ask for pre-paid taxi/auto. Take help from the hotel manager and or Tourism Police for vehicle assistance.
7. Do not take cycle rickshaw. These are neither safe nor balanced. There is always possibility of falling down from the cycle rickshaws.
8. In case in emergency you take cycle rickshaw, Please pull up the hood/top of the rickshaw.
9. Carry small bags in the bend of your elbow, held close to your body. If there is a long strap, wrap it around the bag.
10. Be wary of unexpected persons coming to your hotel room. Never open the door to unsolicited room service or maintenance people. Contact the front desk if you have any doubts.
11. If you schedule a meeting with a potential client, research the company and the individual with whom you are meeting. Meet in a public place, such as a restaurant.
12. Make sure that luggage is only given to a member of the hotel's bell staff and a receipt is issued for stored luggage. Never leave luggage or other expensive items, unattended at airports or taxi stands.

Important Contacts
Police Control Room: 100, 0183-2225054, 2225056
Senior Superintendent of Police: 0183-2227779, 2571852, 9814085205
SP HQ: 0183-2228685, 9781130102

SP CIty Zone I : 0183-2545858, 9781130103
SP City Zone II: 0183-2565621, 9781130102

Tourism Police helpline:9914508821, 9914508901
Inspector/Tourism Police: 9872900499
Police Sttaion Kotwali: 0183-2557670
Police Station Civil Line: 0183-2565286
E-mail: policehelp100@gmail.com
asrssp@yahoo.co.in
Contact us: http://www.policehelp.blogspot.com/

Peaceful Elections in Amritsar

Amritsar
The By-election for Amritsar South Assembly Constituency was completed peacefully on 22.05.2008. Not a single incidence of violence was reported from anywhere in the entire Constituency as well as the entire district. The process of poll concluded smoothly and peacefully because of the elaborate police security arrangements. The entire district was sealed by the police for the peaceful conduct of the poll. The arrangements were made by the police under the direct supervision of the District Police Chief Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh.
The Police played a proactive role to ensure free, fair and impartial elections which is treated as an example in the history of Amritsar. The role of Amritsar Police has been highly appreciated by the citizens for putting all speculations of large scale violence and booth capturing to rest.
For free and fair election more than 2000 cops of district police, 3 companies of commandos and 110 personal of paramilitary forces were deputed. All the police personal deployed on election duty were briefed personally by the district police chief for fair and impartial election. All the police personnel remained vigilant during the whole election process to avoid any eventuality.
Keeping in the view the sensitivity of the Constituency the district police chief remained in the Constituency to take the stock of the situation. A good turn out was reported from the all the polling booths setting a good example of democracy. The district police is thankful to the citizens of Amritsar for their extensive support and co-operation provided for peaceful conduct of the poll.
On the very next day SSP Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh awarded commendation certificates to the police officers for playing key role in the peaceful conduct of elections. Around 1000 cops participated in this simple and impressive award ceremony in Amritsar Police Line.

Swami Ramdevji addresses Police cadres

Amritsar/ April 19, 2008

Swami Ramdevji visited Police Line Amritsar and gave tips to Police officers to keep body and mind healthy to serve the society in a better way. He emphasizes that protectors of the society have to keep sound health and told that a sick cop cannot care for the citizens.
He also emphasizes the importance of Pranayam and various Asanas to keep a police man fit for duty. Citing the theory of karma, he also stressed upon inculcating moral values in the police for better service of the nation.
Besides police personnel of various ranks, a large gathering from the community participated in the camp.
He stated that the country is passing through a phase of transition because of degradation of moral values and ethical standards. He cited that Character building is the sole solution of this problem.
Swamiji said that bold and conscientious citizens are the hour of the day who do not bend upon greed, do not stop before obstacles and remain undeterred by criticism.

He appreciated Amritsar Police Chief Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh for introducing Yoga in the daily curriculum of the police.
It is pertinent to mention here that Amritsar Police adopted Yoga Route to improve police functioning by increasing core competencies. Yoga plays a key role in the police to reduce the stress level of the cops. The experiment is aiming to better police public relations and improved police behavior.

The first camp was organized in the May 2007 in the Police Line and Yoga was made a part of police routine. It was later on extended to all the Police Stations with active cooperation of the teachers of Amritsar Chapter of Patanjali Yog Vidyapeeth. Since then encouraging results have been coming out and fitness level of the police officials increased.

In the first week of January 2008, One week refresher camp was organized in the premises of Madhav Vidya Niketan Amritsar, where more than 500 police officers of various ranks right from Constable to SSP participated apart from school teachers and commoners. The camp was organized in collaboration with Amritsar Chapter of Patanjali Yog Vidyapeeth Hardwar (founded by Swami Ramdev). The inaugural address was given by Hon'ble Mr. Justice Permod Kohli of Punjab and Haryana High Court while Sant Balbir Singh Sinchewal addressed the concluding session.
Another refresher camp was organized in February 2008 under the guidance of Thakur Ranjan Das of Patanjali Yog Vidyapeeth, Hardwar.
In the March 2008, Acharya Balkrshanji visited Police Line Amritsar and bestowed his blessings to the cops and described the importance of Yoga in policing.

Villagers say no to drugs

Pulkanjari , Amritsar 29.03.2008
A Police Public meet was organized at Pulkanjari(Attari) today evening. The meeting was attended by the villagers of Dhanoya Kalan, Dhanoya Khurd, Mode and Attalgarh. In the meeting, the problems of the people were personally heard by SSP Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh. Most of the problems were sorted out on the spot. At this occasion, the villagers vowed to eradicate the menace of narcotics drugs with the help of local police.
The area around Pulkanjari is one of the most backward areas in the border district of Amritsar. Lack of educational facilities and unemployment are the main problems of the area as reported by the villagers. It is pertinent to mention here that 40 youths of this area have been selected under Prakash Scheme with the help of local police. Special interview sessions were organized by the police to help the youths of this backward area. All the selected candidates will be imparted three months training in vocational courses and will be inducted in private sector under the Prakash employment scheme. The basic idea is to employ the youths in constructive activities so that they could not indulge in drug trafficking and other antisocial activities.

Three months back in the December 2007, the heritage site of Pulkanjari was renovated with Police-Public co-operation. Now the site is being developed as a tourist spot by the Punjab Tourism Department and Archeological survey of India.

Pulkanjari was a famous township which was founded by Maharaja Ranjit Singh and he also established a baradari here. He used to stay at this place on the way to Amritsar from Lahore and back. However this site was neglected after the partition and this area lost its charm. Due to stoppage of trade between Amritsar and Lahore it became economically backward. However the ongoing project at this site has raised new hopes for the people of the area and the old glory can return if the site is developed as a tourism spot. The local Police is extending all support to the villagers in the development of the area.

Tourism Police in Amritsar

The District Police of Amritsar City is taking a step forward in community oriented policing with the launch of Amritsar Tourism police that will help the tourists in safeguarding their interests during there stay in the holy city. The Amritsar Tourism Police will be present at six points round the clock, namely Golden Temple, Durgiana Mandiar, Airport, Bus Stand, Railway Station, and Attari Border.

At the time of launching of Tourism Police on 31.01.2008, representatives of CII and other trade & Industry organisations lauded the efforts of local police and told that “Amritsar is an important tourist destination and also a transit point, where from international and national tourists make onward journey to various other places. Amritsar is emerging as a tourism hub and it is one of the most visited places in the world. Everyday around one lakh people visit this place. A large number of devotees from other sates of India as well as from the foreign countries come to pay obeisance to Harmandir Sahib and Durgiana Tirth. It is the need of hour to safeguard the interests of the Tourists as they face several problems related to transport, accommodations, getting tourism related information and many times they fall victims to cheats and touts losing their belongings and valuables.”

SSP Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh will personally supervise this 30 members squad led by Inspector Ramnish Kumar. The officers have been selected especially keeping in view the orientation and work requirement. Special training has been imparted to these officers in tourism management. The main objective of Amritsar Tourism Police, will be to avoid harassment to the tourists by touts, to help in getting transport and lodging at appropriate rate and without much hassle at Railway Station, Airport, Bus Terminal and other important tourist places, like Malls, Clubs etc. Safety and Security against Cheats and bag lifters at these places, to contain crime like, pick pocketing, eve teasing, molestation, drugging etc. and to provide information related to the city of Amritsar and other adjoining tourist Places. Gunbir Singh, President of CII Amritsar told at this occasion that Amritsar Tourism Police will be provided with complete information of Amritsar City, so that they can answer any query or any information about the city, Transports, Accommodations, Clubs, Theaters, etc. Amritsar Tourism Development Board is going to be set up with assistance from United Nations Tourism Development Programme.

Lodge your own FIR

‘Lodge your own FIR’ is an initiative by Amritsar Police for the benefit of the public. Common people always make complaints about non-registration of FIRs as well as having to face problems regarding jurisdiction of Police Stations.
A simple and brief format of FIR has been devised for lodging complaints. The format can be obtained from centralized booths. You can report about any complaint related to any Police Station at these booths. At present there are two booths functioning at the following locations:
1. Police Assistance Booth near Golden Temple ( 07 Am to 11.00 PM)
2. PS Sadar
The third booth will be opened at Police Post Circuit House very soon.

What you have to do for lodging an FIR:
· Take a format of FIR from the officer present in the booth.
· Fill up the columns of the format.
· Hand over the same to the officer.
· Take a receipt of the same.

Your FIR will automatically be registered in the concerned Police Station and you will get a copy of the same at your doorstep. This step is in accordance with section 154(3) of Criminal Procedure Code.

Caution: False reporting is an offence under Indian Penal Code.


This is in addition to other means of lodging FIRs. Amritsar Police has adopted the policy of Free and genuine registration of FIR for the convenience of the general public. Burking of crime as well as tagging of a number of incidents particularly theft incidents in a single FIR has been strictly prohibited. Earlier, there were complaints from the general public that FIRs were not registered freely and common public had to face difficulties to claim insurance because their names did not appear in the FIR.

Other means of getting an FIR registered
It is very easy to lodge an FIR. One can choose any of the following methods to lodge an FIR:
You can visit the Police Stations and lodge your complaints to the PROs. You can give written or oral report; in any case the PRO will register the FIR. You can get a copy of the FIR free of cost.
You can send your complaint through E-mail on the ID -- “policehelp100@gmail.com”. Your FIR will be registered and you can get a scanned copy of the FIR or gist of the FIR.
You can drop your complaints in the complaint boxes installed at various places in Amritsar.
Your FIR can be registered on telephone in exceptional cases. You can dial ‘100’ number at the Police Control Room or the concerned police Station. We have recently lodged a number of FIRs on telephonic information.

Contact us: http://www.policehelp.blogspot.com/
E-mail: policehelp100@gmail.com

Proforma

For Registration of
FIRST INFORMATION REPORT
(Under Section 154 Cr.P.C.)

1. Complainant / Informant:
(a) Name ........................................................................…
(b) Father's/Husband's Name ........................................................…
(c) Address

(d) Phone number and Fax
(e) E-mail:

2. Place of Occurrence:

In case, outside the limit of this District, then Name of District and State ………

3. Date and Time of occurrence:
4. Nature of offence (eg. Theft, burglary, snatching…)
Description of Stolen property (If any):

5. Details of known/suspected/unknown accused with full particulars:



6. Contents of the complaint (in brief):






Signature of the complainant/informant

Obey Traffic Rules to be safe and secure

• Traffic Awareness Week (January 01 to 07, 2008)

  Dear Citizens

  We are entering in the New Year with this Traffic Awareness week to ensure your safety and security. Please obey the rules and avoid inconvenience to you and your fellow citizens. You will be surprised to know that 115 members of our society lost their lives in 2007 due to accidents (115 in 2006). At the same time 45 persons died due to murder in 2007 (49 in 2006).

  Enforcement and challans by the Traffic police does not aim to harass or to cause inconvenience to our citizens. The basic idea is to create a sense of responsibility and awareness to save you from irreparable damage. Moreover total challans made in 2007 is only 18,000 nearly 5000 less than the year 2006. Rather we concentrated more on educating the masses by organizing seminars in various schools and colleges apart from educating the rickshaw poolers, taxi drivers and truck drivers.

  We are also grateful to our sincere members of Police Advisory Committee for their active guidance and support. We are hopeful to get your valuable support and assistance to implement Traffic Management Plan launched on 31.10.2007 by Amritsar Police and Municipal Corporation.

  Wish you a very happy, prosperous and successful New Year 2008!!!

  Senior Superintendent of Police

  with all officers of Traffic Police of Amritsar City

Some Tips for safe driving

• Park your vehicle only where parking is allowed. Do not park in places like: Crossings, Turns, Corners, High-speed ways, footpath, Bus Stop, School, Railway gate, opposite direction to road, especially at night.
• Stay in Traffic Speed limits and slow down on Turns.
• Always wear helmet while riding.
• Do not use beacon lights and tinted glass or colour film on window screens.
• Do not drive in drunken state.
• When Turning Left... Look at the Rearview mirror, give Indicator, sound Horn, and take turn while staying in your lane (Try to stick to the side).
• When Turning Right... Look at the Rearview mirror, give Indicator, sound Horn, and take turn while staying in your lane.(Try to take a wider turn).
• Notice all the Traffic Signs you see on your way, and act appropriately.
• Don't assume that the other Motorists know your intention. It is always necessary to give proper Signals while Starting, Turning, Slowing, and Parking your vehicle.
• It is mandatory for every motorist to give way immediately to any Ambulance or Fire Engine. It is a duty of each citizen, for the sake of saving lives.
• On crossings without control system (Traffic Lights), give adequate opportunity to Pedestrians (the people walking on the road) to avoid accidents.
• When crossing Animal-driven Vehicles, give enough place by slowing down, and Do Not Sound Horn, because it may scare the Animal and it may run away.
• 'U' turn - The driver must be careful, and should confirm it is safe to turn by looking in the rearview mirror. U turns are not allowed on busy roads. Proper signal for turning right must be given.
• During Night, when a Vehicle, Cycle, or Animal Driven Vehicle approaches you, turn your headlights to 'dim' position and keep your vehicle slow.
• Never park a vehicle on a Railway Line. Do not try to cross Railway line when the Gate is closed. Even if the gate is closed, listen carefully and look around to see if a Train is coming. Go further only when confirmed.
• The Horn shall not at all be used in silent zones like Hospitals, schools, colleges, etc. No unusual sounds from a moving vehicle will be allowed.
• Keep appropriate distance from the Vehicle moving ahead of you, so that there is enough place to stop your vehicle without damage, in case the vehicle ahead stops abruptly.
• Seating passengers on the roof tops of Buses as well as on the trolleys and trucks is strictly prohibited and can be penalized.
• Vehicles are not allowed to use any non-standard explosive, dangerous or polluting fuel.

ANNOYING PHONE CALLS and SMSs

1. Do not encourage a return call. If the calls persist to the point that they become harassment, report it to the police. You can mail it on the e-mail www.policehelp100@gmail.com or you can drop your complaints to the nearest complaint box.
2. Caller Line Identification (Caller ID) service is available on your landline phone as well as your cellphone that you may find helpful.
3. Obscene calls and SMSs represent abnormal behaviour that could be potentially dangerous. People who make obscene calls find gratification from the response of the recipient. The best initial reaction is to hang up immediately.
4. If obscene calls and SMSs persist, the police will investigate. An important preliminary step in the investigation is to establish a time pattern for the calls. This will assist the police in apprehending the caller.
5. Do not hesitate to report to the police otherwise it will be more dangerous for you and your family. We have set up a dedicated cell to investigate these types of cases.

How to prevent burglary

We can prevent burglary without doing much. The cases of burglary have been reduced by 50% by adopting various preventive measures by the police as well as by busting numerous gangs of burglars. If we follow the tips mentioned below, burglary can be prevented to a considerable extent…………. Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, SSP Amritsar

1. Don't tempt a thief
Don't leave your home alone.
Always lock your garden sheds and garages.
Use curtains on garage and basement windows.
Never leave notes on your door such as "Gone shopping".
2. Locks..... get the best
Use a reliable locking system.
Key-in-lock knobs provide minimum security. Ask a locksmith for advice on your situation.
Change locks immediately if your keys are lost or stolen.
When moving into a new home, have all locks changed.
3. Outside
Have adequate exterior lighting. A motion-sensitive light is recommended for backyards.
Trim trees and shrubs so that they cannot be used as hiding places for intruders.
4. Alarms
An alarm system is excellent for home security. It provides peace of mind to home owners, especially while on vacation. There is a wide variety of alarm systems on the market.

5. OPENING YOUR DOOR TO STRANGERS
Take great care. Do not open the doors to the strangers.
Keep Peep-holes....to see who's there.
6. Domestic Servant
· Check the antecedents of chowkidars and domestic servants before hiring them. Insist on references from their previous employers.
· Furnish their full particulars to your police station (Beat officers) in the format suggested by them. You can also drop the same on the prescribed format in the nearest Complaint box.
· Keep strict vigil on the activities of the servants. You should not humiliate the servants on petty matters. Nor should they penalise them for small damages.

VACATION CHECK LIST
· Inform your Beat officer/nearest police station so that special watch can be kept.
· Ensure all points of entry are secured, especially windows.
· Use light timers that will give your home the appearance of occupancy.
· Tell trusted neighbours how long you'll be gone and who might be visiting your home in your absence.
· Leave a phone number with a relative or neighbour in case of emergency.
· Place valuable jewellery, coin collection and documents in a safety deposit box or a burglary-proof safe.

SAFER NEIGHBOURHOOD
Stand up for what you believe in if you want a safe community. Get involved. Volunteer to help on community and neighbourhood anti-crime committees and other community improvement efforts.
Encourage groups you belong to – religious, civic, social- to help stop crime.
Report crimes and suspicious activities to police. Agree to testify when necessary.
Know your neighbours and agree to look out for each other.
Set up a Neighbourhood watch or community patrol, working with police.
Make sure your streets are well-lighted. Take assistance from the Municipal Corporation if you think your street is not well-lit.
Clean up the neighbourhood. Involve everyone. Graffiti, litter, abandoned cars, and run-down buildings tell criminals that you don't care about where you live or about each other. Call your local public works department and ask for help cleaning it up.

PREVENT AUTO THEFT

1. Park your vehicle in authorized parking only if you are in the market.
2. Do not leave the vehicle unattended without locking the ignition and removing the key.
3. Install loud alarm systems in your car, so that thieves will be discouraged even if they manage to break into your car. There are several alarm systems that will serve to deter or discourage the car thief, and alert others of forced entry into the car.
4. Do not leave the Licenses, registration cards or other identifying papers in the car. Tape and cassette decks and other expensive items in full view invite theft.
5. Do not park your vehicle outside your house at night, park it in the garage. Lock both the vehicle and the garage.
6. Paint car number on the front and rear of the body, apart from number plates. Ideally, have it etched on the windscreens and window glasses too. This prevents them from being misused by criminals using fake number plates.
7. Never leave the vehicle door unlocked, nor the windows partially open. Make sure that the quarter glasses are properly secured.

IF YOUR CAR GETS STOLEN
Report to the police without delay.
NOTE: False reporting of vehicle theft is a crime and can be punishable by a fine or imprisonment.

AUTO THEFT SECURITY DEVICES
In order to secure your car several devices may be installed to deter or prevent theft of the car or any of its parts or contents. Anti-theft devices, expensive or not, are going to deter the inexperienced theft. The installation of anti-theft devices would provide obstacles to even the experienced thief by increasing the thief’s exposure to arrest.
* IGNITION CUT-OFF: A key-operated or hidden manual switch that interrupts the power supply from the battery to the ignition.
* FUEL CUT-OFF: Integrated into the fuel line, this device prevents the flow of gasoline once the fuel in the gas line is used. Only a special key deactivates the cut-off.
* IGNITION COLUMN GUARD: This security device can provide protection to the ignition starting system. The device fits around the steering column and over the ignition starting system.
* DOOR LOCKS: Visible inside door lock buttons should be smooth and tapered.
* ANTI-THEFT STEERING WHEEL LOCK: Locks on and prevents steering wheel from turning. Its high visibility deters theft.
* TRUNK LOCK: As an auxiliary or secondary locking device, a heavy duty chain lock may be installed inside the trunk and is key-operated.

Police Advisory Committee for better community participation

Amritsar Police has set up Police Advisory Committee to streamline the project COP (Community oriented Policing). Besides this two separate committees have been set up to improve traffic system and to tackle with drug menace. Area Defense Committees will be set up for every Police Station in the next phase.

The Police Advisory Committee will assist the police in various key policing areas. The committee comprising of various stakeholders of the society can be able to suggest measures to improve the functioning of police and also to make it more community friendly. The committee will sit at least twice in a month at a convenient place to discuss the core policing issues.

The committee will consist of:

1. The representatives of Rotary Club Amritsar
2. Senior professors of Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar
3. Principals of schools and Colleges
4. Members of District Civil Defense
5. Representatives of Trade and industries
6. Representatives of CII (Confederation of Indian Industries)
7. Representatives of Bar
8. Any person who volunteers for the common cause

Traffic Advisory Committee: This committee will suggest measures to improve the traffic system in the City and also to assist in the implementation process. Honorary Traffic wardens will be selected to assist the police in the enforcement of traffic rules as well as to create awareness in the masses.

Drug Awareness Committee: This committee has been set up to tackle with the menace of drugs. The committee consisting of intellectuals, educationist and professionals will suggest measures to curb the supply line of drugs and also to create awareness among the masses to reduce the demand line.

Advantages:

1. To bring the community and the police closer
2. To bring infrastructural reforms in the core policing areas
3. To take help from the common people to improve police functioning
4. To provide maximum satisfaction to common people
5. To ensure strict action against the criminals

Responsibilities and obligations of common citizens in the Policing

It is the responsibility of a common citizen to assist the police in certain cases as well as to provide information to the police regarding commission of various crimes.

Section 37 of the Criminal Procedure Code of India gives obligations to the common citizen to assist the police and the magistrates:

Every person is bound to assist a Magistrate or police officer reasonably demanding his aid-

(a) in the taking or preventing the escape of any other person whom such Magistrate or police officer is authorised to arrest; or

(b) in the prevention or suppression of a breach of the peace; or

(c) in the prevention of any injury attempted to be committed to any railway, canal, telegraph or public property.

Section 39 of the Criminal Procedure Code of India enumerates certain kinds of information to be given to the police by the common citizens:

(1) Every person, aware of the commission of, or of the intention of any other person to commit, any offence punishable under any of the following sections of the Indian Penal

Code,(45 of 1860) namely:-

(i) Sections 121 to 126, both inclusive, and section 130 (that is to say, offences against the State specified in Chapter VI of the said Code);

(ii) Sections 143, 144, 145, 147 and 148 (that is to say, offences against the public tranquility specified in Chapter VIII of the said Code);

(iii) Offences relating to illegal gratification

(iv) Sections 272 to 278, both inclusive (that is to say, offences relating to adulteration of food and drugs, etc.);

(v) Sections 302, 303 and 304 (that is to say, offences affecting life);

(vi) section 382 (that is to say, offence of theft after preparation made for causing death, hurt or restraint in order to the committing of the theft);

(vii) Sections 392 to 399, both inclusive, and section 402 (that is to say, offences of robbery and dacoity);

(viii) Section 409 (that is to say, offence relating to criminal breach of trust by public servant, etc.);

(ix) Sections 431 to 439, both inclusive (that is to say, offences of mischief against property);

(x) Sections 449 and 450 (that is to say, offence of house-trespass);

(xi) Sections 456 to 460, both inclusive (that is to say, offences of lurking house-trespass); and

(xii) Sections 489A to 489E, both inclusive (that is to say, offences relating to currency notes and bank notes),

shall, in the absence of any reasonable excuse, the burden of proving which excuse shall lie upon the person so aware, forthwith give information to the nearest Magistrate or police officer of such commission or intention.

Every Citizen is a Police Officer

Every citizen is a police officer without uniform and every police officer is a common citizen in uniform. Every citizen has been given power of a police officer to ensure peace and order in the society and thus a common citizen can contribute a lot in the maintenance of law and order in the society. Section 43 of the Criminal Procedure Code of India bestowed power of arrest to the common citizen if a cognizable and non- bailable offence is committed in his or her presence. The section 43 says:

“(1) Any private person may arrest or cause to be arrested any person who in his presence commits a non-bailable and cognizable offence, or any proclaimed offender, and, without unnecessary delay, shall make over or cause to be made over any person so arrested to a police officer, or, in the absence of a police officer, take such person or cause him to be taken in custody to the nearest police station.

(2) If there is reason to believe that such person comes under the provisions of section 41, a police officer shall re-arrest him.

(3) If there is reason to believe that he has committed a non-cognizable offence, and he refuses on the demand of a police officer to give his name and residence, or gives a name or residence which such officer has reason to believe to be false, he shall be dealt with under the provisions of section 42; but if there is no sufficient reason to believe that he has committed any offence, he shall be at once released.”

Acid attack case solved

News Item: The Times of India

'Sister involved in acid attack'

30 Aug 2007, 0143 hrs IST,TNN

AMRITSAR: Police claim to have solved the mystery behind the acid attack on two girls — Sharanjit Kaur alias Sonia and Ekta — some days back. According to SSP Kanwar Vijay Partap Singh, it was Sonia’s sister Paramjit Kaur who had connived with her paramour, an Army jawan, to throw acid on her since Paramjit did not want Sonia to marry her boyfriend.

Talking to media persons on Wednesday, Singh said police had arrested Jagroop Singh alias Banti, who is serving in the Army at Karmroop in Assam, and his accomplice Gaurav Kalyani alias Bali.

Giving details of the incident, he said Banti was brother-in-law of Sonia’s brother Jaswant Singh and had an affair with Paramjit Kaur, while Sonia had a love affair with one Ranjit alias Jeetu. None of the sisters liked each other’s boyfriends and were opposed to their marriage in the family.

On August 17, Paramjit informed Banti that her sister Sonia would be coming from village Mallanwali to her beauty parlour in Gumtala. Banti, along with Balli, was waiting for Sonia in the village. When Sonia and Ekta reached the village, Balli threw acid on Sonia, and then took the evening train for Guwahati.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Chandigarh/Sister_involved_in_acid_attack/articleshow/2321365.cms

No arrest without sufficient evidence

No arrest without sufficient evidence
The District police has issued broad guidelines to bring transparency in the arrest. It is going to prevent the misuse of the provision of arrest. Some of the guidelines are as follows:

The guidelines issued by the Supreme Court regarding arrest in DK Basu case will be followed in letter and spirit.
No one will be locked up in the lock up of Police Station without effecting arrest.
There will be a transition room in every Police Station at the entry gate of the police station. Examination or interrogation of a person called in the police station will be carried out in this transition room only.
Arrest will be effected if and only if there is sufficient evidence on case file against the person to be arrested. If the investigating officer makes his prima facie mind to arrest a person in any FIR, he will inform about it to the DSP concerned with all the facts and circumstances. The DSP after visiting the police station or over telephone will order to arrest the person if he is convinced with proof and evidence collected by the Investigating officer against the person.
After that an entry will be made in the daily diary regarding arrest and the person will be arrested with due procedure of law.

News: The Tribune: September 05, 2007

No arrest without sufficient proof

The district police chief has issued instructions regarding person’s arrest as per guidelines issued by the apex court. No one would be locked up in police station without effecting arrest. A person would only be arrested when the investigating officer has sufficient evidence. If the investigating officer makes prima facie mind to arrest a person in any FIR, he has to inform the DSP concerned about it with all facts and circumstances.

The DSP after visiting the police station or over telephone will order person’s arrest if he is convinced with proof and evidence collected by the investigating officer. After that an entry will be made in the daily diary regarding arrest and the person will be arrested with due procedure of law. Arrest memo in the prescribed format would be filled in certain cases like murder, kidnapping, robbery, dacoity, rape, snatching, theft, burglary, NDPS, etc.

(http://www.tribuneindia.com/2007/20070905/aplus1.htm#2)

Guidelines in the DK Basu case

In the para 36 of the judgment in the petition D.K. BASU v State of West Bengal given by the Honourable Supreme Court of India the following safeguards are available for the citizens to avoid indiscriminate arrest:

(1) The police personnel carrying out the arrest and handling the interrogation of the arrestee should bear accurate, visible and clear identification and name tags with their designations. The particulars of all such police personnel who handle interrogation of the arrestee insist be recorded in a register.

(2) That the police officer carrying out the arrest of the arrestee shall prepare a memo of arrest at the time of arrest and such memo shall be attested by atleast one witness, who may be either a member of the family of the arrestee or a respectable person of the locality from where the arrest is made. It shall also be counter signed by the arrestee and shall contain the time and date of arrest.

(3) A person who has been arrested or detained and is being held in custody in a police station or interrogation centre or other lock-up, shall be entitled to have one friend or relative or other person known to him or having interest in his welfare being informed, as soon as practicable, that he has been arrested and is being detained at the particular place, unless the attesting witness of the memo of arrest is himself such a friend or a relative of the arrestee.

(4) The time, place of arrest and venue of custody of an arrestee must be notified by the police where the next friend or relative of the arrestee lives outside the district or town through the Legal Aid Organisation in the District and the police station of the area concerned telegraphically within a period of 8 to 12 hours after the arrest.

(5) The person arrested must be made aware of this right to have someone informed of his arrest or detention as soon as he is put under arrest or is detained.

(6) An entry must be made in the diary at the place of detention regarding the arrest of the person which shall also disclose the name of the next friend of the person who has been informed of the arrest and the names and particulars of the police officials in whose custody the arrestee is.

(7) The arrestee should, where he so requests, be also examined at the time of his arrest and major and minor injuries, if any present on his/herbed, must be recorded at that time. The "Inspection Memo" must be signed both by the arrestee and the police officer effecting the arrest and its copy provided to the arrestee.

(8) The arrestee should be subjected to medical examination by a trained doctor every 48 hours during his detention in custody by a doctor on the panel of approved doctors appointed by Director, Health Services of the concerned State or Union Territory. Director, Health Services should prepare such a penal for all Tehsils and Districts as well.

(9) Copies of all the documents including the memo of arrest, referred to above, should be sent to the illaqa Magistrate for his record.

(10) The arrestee may be permitted to meet his lawyer during interrogation, though not throughout the interrogation.

(11) A police control room should be provided at all district and State Headquarters, where information regarding the arrest and the place of custody of the arrestee shall be communicated by the officer causing the arrest, within 12 hours of effecting the arrest and at the police control room it should bc displayed on conspicuous notice board.

Investigation wing separated from Law & order in Amritsar

Amritsar Police has separated investigation wing from the general law and order duty. This is going to improve the quality of investigation as well as will reduce stress level of the cops as they do not have to perform both kinds of the duties simultaneously.

Salient features of this project:
The detective wing in the police stations will be headed by an officer of the rank of Sub Inspector designated as Additional SHO(Detective). Investigation will be carried out by a team of officers in which one SI/ASI, one HC and one Constable will be included. Every police station has been given three to six teams of detective officers.
There will be separate room for the detective officers in the police stations. It is the duty of the detective officer to visit the scene of crime in case of occurrence of a cognizable offence. In other words they are responsible to visit at the place of occurrence without any delay. For this purpose, one of the detective officers will always be present in the police station along with supporting staff. Normally emergency duties will be performed in 2 shifts: 8.00 AM to 8.00 PM and 8.00 PM to 8.00 AM.

The detective officers will have sufficient number of investigation kits.
The detective officers will be imparted sufficient on the job training to deal with various cases.
Detective officer will make sure that all the registers related with crime have been properly maintained.

Detective officer will make sure that entry will be made everyday in the daily diary regarding full details of the persons confined in the police custody as well as in the judicial custody.
Every time fresh application will be given to the magistrate to extend remand of a person confined in the judicial custody as per need.
Detective officers will not be deployed for day to day law and order duties.

News: The Tribune

Spl investigation cells promise speedy justice

Our Correspondent

Amritsar, September 4

To help crime victims get speedy justice the district police has constituted separate investigation cells working especially to investigate in criminal cases reported at various city police stations. This was disclosed by city police chief Kunwar Vijay Partap Singh.

Kunwar said, “Investigation cells would be headed by a sub-inspector designated as additional SHO (detective), while probe would be carried out by a team consisting of sub-inspector or an assistant sub-inspector, one head constable and one constable.” All city police stations have been allotted three to six teams of detective officers. These detective officers would not do routine day-to-day law and order duties, he added.

Kunwar, who was instrumental in starting this practice during his tenure as SP (city) here several years ago, said investigations were a specialised task. He said it was difficult for the police to investigate the cases with normal day routine of maintaining law and order. Due to occupancy with routine work many times the investigations take longer period ultimately benefiting the perpetrators of crime.Giving details about the work of investigation cells, Kunwar said, “These detective wings have been set up in every police station as well as in the CIA staff. The wings would be provided with separate rooms, besides investigation kits for conducting investigations.”

The Supreme Court had already given directions to the police administration to establish cells in every police station of India so that speedy justice could be provided.

The SSP said it would be essential for detective officer to visit crime site without delay. In case of a cognizable offence, the detective officers would always be present in the police station along with supporting staff. Emergency duties will be performed in two shifts, he added.

He said it would be mandatory for detective officers to maintain registers related with crime and entry would be made everyday in the daily diary regarding full details of the persons confined in the police custody as well as in the judicial custody.

(http://www.tribuneindia.com/2007/20070905/aplus1.htm#2)

Yoga as stressbuster for cops

One week Yoga camp was concluded today in the Police Lines Amritsar, where more than 300 police officers of various ranks right from Constable to SSP participated. Amritsar Police in collaboration with Amritsar Chapter of Patanjali Yog Vidyapeeth Hardwar(founded by Swami Ramdev) has organized this camp for the benefit of the police officers.

The idea behind this camp is mental and physical development of the officers as well as to change their mindset to deal with the common people. It is going to change the work culture of the police towards commoners as well as to improve police public relations.

Besides this, 20 police officers have been selected for advanced Yoga Course so that they can be trained as Yoga Teachers. Amritsar Police is going to include yoga in the daily routine of the police officers. Every morning, the police stations and other units will have yoga classes in future.

District Coordinator of Patanjali Yog Vidyapeeth Subhash Suman and Awan Parashar along with other yoga teachers were prominent to make this camp successful. SP Kewal Kumar, Kaustubh Sharma, DSP Shailender Singh, Lakhbir Singh, Manjit Singh and SHOs of various Police Stations alongwith their subordinates participated in the camp. Vijay Pratap Singh, SSP of Amritsar is also well versed in yoga having Diploma in this discipline.

News: The Times of India

Yoga as stressbuster for cops

21 Aug 2007, 0226 hrs IST,Yudhvir Rana,TNN

AMRITSAR: Police here have taken the yoga route to overcome stress, fatigue and obesity, with an aim to increase their efficiency in bringing down the crime graph and for better police-public relations. About 500 policemen, of all ranks, participate in the yoga workshop held every Monday at police lines.

“By practising yoga, we have observed 30% improvement in physical and mental fitness of jawans and it is an encouraging figure,” said Surjit Singh, SP, headquarter, on Monday. Surjit is assigned to implement yogic fitness programme, the brainchild of SSP Kunwar Vijay Partap Singh.

He said law enforcement was a tough job. Long working hours and work overload cause fatigue and stress that gets reflected in the behaviour of jawans, Surjit said.

He added that with yoga they have been successful in de-stressing the jawans as well as the officers. Symptoms of stress and fatigue include behavioural change, drowsiness during duty, inability to stand upright, irritation and misbehaviour, he said.

The SP said about 20% policemen were obese and yoga along with routine exercises and parade have helped them to reduce weight and be physically fit.
He said district police had especially sent head constable Baldev Singh to Patanjali Yog Peeth, Haridwar, for yoga training. Now, he imparts yoga training to policemen, so that they could also practice it at home with their families.

He said apart from normal stresses, the long working hours affects policemen and for this yoga has proved to be the best cure.

(http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Chandigarh/Yoga_as_stressbuster_for_cops/articleshow/2296484.cms)

Free registration of FIR

Amritsar Police has adopted the policy of free and genuine registrations of FIRs for the convenience of the general public. Burking of crime as well as tagging of a number of incidents particularly theft incidents in a single FIR has been strictly prohibited. Earlier, there were complaints from the general public that FIRs were not registered freely and common public had to face difficulties to claim insurance because their names did not appear in the FIR.

How can get an FIR registered

It is very easy to lodge an FIR. One can choose any of the following methods to lodge an FIR:

1. You can visit the Police Stations and lodge your complaints to the PROs. You can give written or oral report; in any case the PRO will register the FIR. You can get a copy of the FIR free of cost.
2. You can send your complaint through E-mail on the ID -- “policehelp100@gmail.com”. Your FIR will be registered and you can get a scanned copy of the FIR or gist of the FIR.
3. You can drop your complaints in the complaint boxes installed at various places in Amritsar.
4. Your FIR can be registered on telephone in exceptional cases. You can dial ‘100’ number at the Police Control Room or the concerned police Station. We have recently lodged a number of FIRs on telephonic information.

News: The Tribune

Now, lodge FIR online

Cops go hi-tech, tie up with hotels to stem crime

Our Correspondent

Amritsar, July 10

The city police is going hi-tech. In a major step, initiated to provide more convenience to residents, it has unveiled a new facility which allows registration of complaints online. SSP Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh said the people now need not visit police station for lodging FIRs. Stating that the new facility is being lapped up by the residents, the SSP said, “In the last 10 days, we have received more than 20 FIRs. It helps save precious time, both that of authorities and citizens.” The district police chief was addressing a meeting of Amritsar hotel and restaurant association here.

The district police conducted late night raids on all the major hotels to identify the anti-social elements and foreigners. The officer said the surprise check was to ensure that hotels were following the guidelines wherein it’s mandatory for them to pass on the information regarding their guests, especially foreigners, to the nearest police station.

It has come to our notice many Pakistanis are coming here in the garb of travel agents and officials offering youths jobs abroad. The meeting was attended by a large number of representatives of hoteliers, including association’s chairman Bhupinder Singh.

((http://www.tribuneindia.com/2007/20070711/aplus.htm)

Crime Stoppers for round the clock surveillance

Amritsar police has set up Crime Stoppers to ensure 24 hours 7day surveillance in the city to provide a sense of security to the citizens. More than 200 hundred officers of various ranks have been deputed for the purpose after imparting them special training and aptitude.

The purpose of setting up this cell is to prevent snatching, abduction, robbery, eve-teasing and other similar crimes. Equipped with latest technologies, the crime stoppers have been given specific beats to cover. They work in three shifts and can be seen on gypsies and motorcycles at strategic points in the city. They have been able to minimize the incidents of chain snatching; eve teasing etc. to a considerable extent after the system has been put in place.

News Item: The Tribune

Stemming The Tide

Snatchers beware! Crime stoppers are here

Vibhor Mohan

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, September 25

Just the way one finds ready-to-help police control room (PCR) gypsys and bikes at almost every roundabout in Chandigarh, the Amritsar police has set up a team of “Crime Stoppers” to ensure round-the-clock surveillance in the city to provide greater sense of security to the general public.

SSP Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh said more than 200 police personnel of different ranks had been deputed for the purpose after imparting them special training. “The objective behind setting up the cell is to prevent snatching, abduction, robbery, eve-teasing and other similar crimes. Equipped with latest technologies, the Crime Stoppers have been given specific beats to cover,” he said.

They worked in three shifts and could be seen on Gypsies and motorcycles at strategic points in the city. The initiative to launch the special surveillance under the name Crime Stoppers was taken following growing incidents of chain snatching and eve-teasing in the city. The Crime Stoppers also kept a watch on the smooth flow of traffic and make sure there was no violation.

Besides, telephone connectivity at all police stations had been restored and vacant posts under the Amritsar police district had been filled. Telephone lines, which were lying non-functional for long, had been reactivated for the benefit and easy accessibility to general public.

In addition, the functioning of the police control room had been streamlined to make it receptive, responsive and effective so that it ultimately became public-friendly.

“The introduction of mobile vans, motorcycles for round-the-clock surveillance has been made possible under the banner Crime Stoppers. Members of the team have been deployed at strategic points and sensitive locations. The graph of incidents of chain snatching and eve-teasing has shown a remarkable drop after the system has been put in place,” he said.

“In addition to all these efforts, public is free to call me up personally on my cell number in case of an emergency,” he said.

“All these efforts are aimed at bringing people closer to the police and they have started growing a feeling of confidence and it has led to social security at large. Free communication is a big boon to effective policing. The police in the service of public is the mantra of the Amritsar police,” he said.

http://www.tribuneindia.com/2007/20070926/aplus1.htm#4

COP: Complaint Boxes

In its endeavor to make direct contact with the common people, Amritsar Police has installed Complaint-cum-Suggestion Boxes at various places of Public importance. The keys of the boxes remain with the SSP himself and he personally opens the boxes once in a week. The objective behind this is to obtain feedback and suggestions from the public regarding the general crime as well as police working in the district.

We are getting constant and regular suggestions regarding police working besides valuable inputs regarding organized crime especially related with drugs and corrupt practices in the society. It is also an easy way to lodge complaints of any kind in which police can do something.This effort has bolstered the public confidence and direct access has enabled them in mitigating their sufferings.

It is general appeal from the common people to give proper identity if you want to lodge any complaint however identity is not required if you want to give any suggestion or any secret information. Any way the identity of the informer is kept secret.

You can also use E-mail for this purpose. The ID is policehelp100@gmail.com.
The SSP himself operates this e-mail.

The boxes are located at the following points:

1. SSP Office
2. PS Civil Lines
3. Ranjit Avenue A Block Market( Near Dainik Jagran)
4. Police Lines Main Gate
5. Rattan Singh Chowk
6. Lawrence Road: Tree BBK DAV College
7. Railway Station: SGPC Information centre
8. Company Bagh main gate
9. GND Hospital: Main gate right side
10. GNDU: Near Main Sentry gate
11. Chehartta Chowk
12. Haripura, Islamabad
13. Vijaynagar : Near OBC
14. Airport( VIP Parking)
15. green Avenue
16. Hall gate
17. Town hall
18. Golden temple(Police Check post)
19. PS B Division/SW Gate
20. Gurdawara Shaheedan/ Chattiwind Gate
21. Atta Mandi Chowk
22. Shaktinagar Chowk
23. Gate Hakima(near Gate opposite Police Post)
24. Durgiana Mandir(Near main gate)
25. Bus Stand
26. Maqboolpura
27. Jandiala (at three locations)

News Item
The Tribune, August 8, 2007)
(http://www.tribuneindia.com/2007/20070908/aplus.htm)

Curbing Crime
Out-of-box thinking helps cops
Vibhor Mohan
Tribune News Service

Amritsar, September 7
“Respected SSP saab, a group of drug peddlers wanted by the police are moving around freely in the Sultanwind area. They can be arrested from the following address…”

This is one of the letters posted by city residents in the complaint box put up at different public places. A brain-child of SSP Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, the ideas has come up as a strong medium to report secretly about crime.

Talking to The Tribune, Kunwar said, “Thanks to the people. We have been able to achieve major breakthroughs due to secret information by the responsible citizens. The information has helped us in arresting accused wanted for drug peddling for the past few months.” The recent seizure of drugs on Sultanwind Road, Maqboolpura and the arrest of family of an accused Sukhi, are outcomes of public feedback only, he added.

Besides complaints, department also receives interesting suggestions. “For instance, a gentleman suggested that women should wear necklaces made of “tulsi”, instead of gold. It would keep them healthy and chain snatchers at bay,” recalled the SSP.

Giving another example, the SSP said, “Disturbed by the fact that kids of policemen roam around, with no purpose after school, one of the staffers shot off a letter to me suggesting setting up of a library in the residential area for these kids.” “Similarly, department gets many valuable suggestions and we’ll try to implement them. Many letters pertain to traffic congestion in the city and people write in suggestions about their areas on how to create more parking spaces,” he added.

Revealing about the activity, the SSP said, “Instead of putting up complaint boxes outside the police stations, they have been put up at public places. On an average we get 15-20 letters every third day from boxes outside Hall Gate, Town Hall and Ram Bagh.” The keys of the boxes are with me and I personally read every letter, added Kunwar.

Letters are categorised as - tip offs, suggestions and grievances. The grievances include complaints about land disputes and personal problems. These are passed on to the police station concerned. Giving an example, the SSP said he received a letter from the owner of a popular restaurant in the city. He had requested him to withdraw orders of declaring premises around his restaurand as no-parking zone, because it had resulted in loss of business. Asked about the percentage of junk mail, the SSP said only 10 per cent of total received mails was junk. “It has never happened that information through letters turn out to be false. Most tip-offs are by anonymous writers and some even call after the job is done,” the SSP added.

Even disgruntled cops contact the police chief through the complaint boxes. In one such complaint a staffer informed about a corrupt head constable and urged the SSP to frisk him any day after duty hours where he could be caught red-handed.

Public Relations Officers (PRO) to improve Police-Public relations

Amritsar Police has introduced PRO system in the Police Stations to create cordial relation between the police and the community. Women Police Officers have been deputed in the Police Stations to ensure better police accountability. PROs are responsible for attending the public at the Police Stations. They have been given power to register FIRs and to listen the grievances of the public.

People coming to the Police Stations were normally attended by the Munshi(MHC) and even genuine complaints of common people were not dealt with properly. Most of the cases remained unattended due to unfriendly behaviour of the Munshi with the common people.

Aims and objectives:
To work as a bridge between the Police and the Community
To create cordial relations with the public
To ensure Proper Public dealing
To make police more accountable for the redressal of grievances of common people
To ensure better coordination between Police and Public


Training: The officers posted in the PRO wing have been imparted special training so that they can deal with the common people properly. They have also been given one week training in stress management, public dealing and Yoga organized by Bharatiya Vidya Bhawan SL Public School from April 24 to April 30, 2007 through Maharshi Patanjali Foundation Bombay.

Duties and responsibilities:
· To attend the grievances of public in the Police Station.
· Internal administration of the PS
· To attend wireless and telephonic messages
· To maintain Register No. 1(FIR) and Rojnamcha of the Police Station
· To register FIR and entrust the investigation to detective officers
· To receive the complaints of the public and mark the same to the concerned officers
· All details about the area eg. Population, minority problems, sensitive places and points
· Co-ordination between other wings of the PS

Rotary Club Civil Lines has adopted Police Station Civil Lines to assist the PROs to bring improvements in the overall functioning of this Police Station.

Community Oriented Policing in Amritsar

C= Community
O= Oriented
P= Policing

COP stands for Community Oriented Policing

[Respect for Law abiding citizens and strict action against law breakers]

In its endeavor to bridge the gap between Police and Public, Amritsar Police has launched Community Oriented Policing to provide better services to the common people. In order to streamline the grievance redressal system, PROs (Public Relations Officers) have been posted in each Police Station headed by women police officers. The PROs are working as Community Police Officers. People coming to the Police Station can lodge their grievances with the PRO. The system has received very good response from the common public. Basically, this has wiped out British model of Munshi system and Daroga system from the policing at the root level.

Telephone connectivity in Police Stations have been restored which had been lying defunct for year. Synchronization of public calls has been carried out in the Police Control Room and the effective call response mechanism has been put in place. Accessibility to Police Control Room from Mobile Numbers of BSNL and Spice has been put in place. Additional Numbers have been made available for the Police Control Room for the subscribers of other telephone and mobile providers. All these efforts have brought in tremendous response from the general public and more and more calls are being attended to resolve the complaints and lodging of FIRs where required.

To enable the general public to have a direct access to the District Police Chief, Complaint Boxes have been put up at 30 important locations, where in any one is free to lodge the complaint or provide information to the SSP, Amritsar. The boxes are opened under the personal supervision of the SSP and are thoroughly scrutinized and necessary action is taken as per the requirements. This effort has bolstered the public confidence and direct access has enabled them in mitigating their sufferings.

Amritsar Police has also taken a lead in registering FIRs on telephone and through E-Mails. Complaints may be lodged by sending particulars at the policehelp100@gmail.com. The facility extended has brought many instances, where in the complainants who hesitate to visit Police Stations in person have lodged their complaints directly and cases are being registered after verification the contents.

Introduction of Mobile Vans, Motor Cycles for round the clock surveillance has been given a big thrust under the banner “CRIME STOPPERS”, which have been deployed at strategic points and sensitive locations. The graph of incidents of chain snatching, eve teasing etc. has shown a remarkable drop after the system has been put in place.

In addition to all these efforts, public is free to call personally the SSP, Amritsar on his personal cell number in case of an emergency.

All these efforts have brought the public closer to the Police and they have started growing a feeling of confidence and it has led to social security at large. Free Communication is a big boon to effective policing. Police in the service of Public is the mantra of Amritsar Police.

Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh takes charge as SSP Amritsar

Amritsar, April 18, 2007

Kunwar Vijay Pratap Singh, an IPS officer of 1998 batch of Punjab cadre, has taken over as District Police Chief of Amritsar. He assumed the charge of Senior Superintendent of Police Amritsar on April 18, 2007. Before this he was posted as SSP of Gurdaspur District having additional charge of Batala Police District. His earlier stints in the holy city are Assistant Superintendent of Police (1999-2000), SP City (2002-03) and DIG Prisons (2005-06). Kunwar has distinction to begin his career in Punjab Police from this holy city in 1999 as a trainee IPS Officer.

Right from the first day of his joining, Community Oriented Policing (COP) was launched in the city with a view to create an atmosphere to maintain peace and order in the society and to provide a sense of security to the citizens. His areas of priority are prevention of crime, accessibility for the common citizen, to eliminate the menace of drug and to promote brotherhood in the citizens of Amritsar.