Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Vinaytosh Mishra chaired a high-level review meeting with district Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Range IGs/DIGs via video conferencing at the State Police Headquarters today.
The comprehensive meeting addressed critical issues, including the upcoming student union elections on the 15th, festival season security, women’s safety, cybercrime control, and the ongoing “Nishamukta Odisha Abhiyan” (Drug-Free Odisha Campaign).
Securing Student Union Elections
With student union elections slated for October 15, the DGP underscored the sensitive nature of student communities and stressed the importance of regular, direct communication between police and students. He instructed Sub-Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs) and Inspector-in-Charges (IICs) to coordinate closely with student leaders to ensure peaceful polls.
Key directives for campuses include:
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Restricting unauthorised outsiders and anti-social elements from entering college premises.
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Keeping a close watch on student hostels and messes.
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Avoiding unnecessary police deployment unless a credible threat of violence exists.
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Monitoring student feasts and related gatherings.
Furthermore, the DGP recommended holding preparatory coordination meetings involving District Collectors, SPs, Sub-Collectors, and college principals. Special vigilance has been mandated for the post-election phase when the likelihood of celebratory clashes or tension is typically higher.
Prioritizing Women’s Safety and Cybercrime Control
In the wake of recent criminal incidents targeting young women in Bhubaneswar, the DGP asserted that women’s safety remains a top priority. He directed officials to ensure swift, transparent, and effective investigations into sensitive cases, warning of strict legal action against offenders.
To tackle the rising threat of financial and digital fraud, the DGP instructed authorities to upgrade cyber police stations, streamline case investigations, and enhance legal enforcement mechanisms.
Crackdown on Organised Crime and Narcotics
Emphasising robust crime control, the DGP called for rigorous measures against habitual and organised criminals. He stressed regular raids and inspections, particularly strict enforcement under the NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) Act. Under the “Nishamukta Odisha Abhiyan,” police teams were directed to dismantle drug trafficking networks and systematically destroy illegal cannabis (ganja) cultivation.
Additionally, the meeting reviewed the successful implementation of new criminal laws and the continuous development of police infrastructure across the state.
Top-ranking police officials, including ADGs Soumendra Priyadarshi, Arun Bothra, Rajesh Kumar, Prateek Mohanty, Yatindra Koyal, Police Commissioner Dr S. Dev Datta Singh, along with various IGPs, DIGPs, and district SPs, participated in the virtual conference.
