Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that a country's GDP was directly linked to its law and order system.
"A strong law and order system helps attract huge investment, which in turn creates more jobs and accelerates the economic growth. The economic growth leads to higher GDP and per capita income," said Siddaramaiah during the Police Commemoration Day held in Bengaluru on Monday.
Siddaramaiah noted that as many as 216 police personnel including officers, including 12 in the state, had laid down their life in the line of duty in the last one year.
Emphasising the role of the police force in maintaining internal security, preventing crime, and handling disasters in the country, the chief minister grieved for the fallen heroes who had died saving the life and dignity of the citizens.
"In a society with inequalities, there is bound to be rampant exploitation and injustice. Our police force plays a key role in protecting the constitutional rights of the oppressed. My government stands with the police in this endeavour," said Siddaramaiah, elaborating on the initiatives taken for prevention of crimes.
"We have it in place 6,000 CCTV cameras and over 260 highway patrol vehicles for surveillance. Additionally, 100 new police stations are being established at a cost of Rs 200 crore," added the CM.
As many as 10,000 police housing units will be built at a cost of Rs 2,000 crore by 2025 and seven public schools will be opened for the benefit of children of the police personnel, said the chief minister.
Amid the accusation of the Congress government misusing the state police to "rein in" the political opponents, Siddaramaiah stated that his government would extend all support to the state police to function independently.
