We Are Committed to Maintaining Law and Order in the State – CM Devendra Fadnavis

Maharashtra Police Faces Challenge to Maintain Top Rank Using New Laws

Thane : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized today that all are committed to maintaining law and order in the state. He noted that Maharashtra Police faces the challenge of retaining its top rank in the country by implementing new laws effectively.

CM Fadnavis was addressing the 2025 conference of senior police officers at the Community Hall, Raymond Guest House, J.K. Gram, Thane, where he was the chief guest.

Home Ministers (Urban) Yogesh Kadam and (Rural) Dr. Pankaj Bhoyar, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department Iqbal Singh Chahal, Director General of Police Rashmi Shukla, Mumbai Police Commissioner Vivek Phansalkar, Special Inspector General of Police (Konkan Region) Dr. Sanjay Darade, and Thane Police Commissioner Ashutosh Dumbre, along with other senior officers, were present at the event.

While addressing the officers, CM Fadnavis stressed the need to increase the availability of forensic vans in Maharashtra. He highlighted the importance of seamless data integration in systems like CCTNS-2.2 and ICGS-2.2, which require better network connectivity. He proposed the establishment of cubicles for video conferencing facilities in jails and key locations, allowing recorded testimonies to be considered valid in court. This initiative would reduce the logistical burden of escorting accused individuals to court.

He suggested setting up notified evidence centers in police stations and forensic labs to record testimonies and evidence, which doctors could also use for forensic verification. The government, he assured, would provide the necessary funds for these initiatives.

Strengthening Forensic Investigations

CM Fadnavis underscored the emphasis on forensic and technical evidence in the new laws. To improve investigations, all police units will be equipped with tablets, ensuring 100% evidence recording. The Chief Minister also stressed the need to complete pending cases and deploy additional trained personnel through external sources. He highlighted the importance of timely charge sheet submissions and increasing the number of trained personnel from 90% to 100%.

He also stated that e-summons could now be served via WhatsApp, with digital records maintained for tracking. Police stations must ensure the timely execution of all registered cases. Additionally, confiscated properties lying in police stations must be returned to rightful owners within six months as per the new law. He proposed modernizing storage facilities for seized case materials.

Key Legal Reforms

CM Fadnavis outlined several crucial legal changes:

• No more than two adjournments will be allowed in court cases, and public prosecutors must be informed.
• A dedicated dashboard will be created to monitor conviction rates, and regular meetings with all police units will be held.
• The Home and Police Departments will implement a witness protection scheme.
• Until police officers receive official tablets, they may use personal mobile phones for work-related tasks.
• Success stories of investigations should be publicized.
• Helpline numbers 1945 and 112 must be widely promoted.
• Police should leverage the AI-powered MahaCyber Center to combat cybercrime.
• Law enforcement must ensure that public trust in the new legal system is established through proper implementation.

War Against Drugs and Crime

Expressing concern over the rising drug menace, CM Fadnavis stated that the police must maintain a strong grip on drug criminals and take strict action against them. He commended the police for their anti-Naxal operations and urged them to maximize the use of available technology. A specialized unit will be trained in cybercrime investigation, and new recruits with cyber knowledge will be prioritized.

The “Safe Street” initiative will be launched in cities to prevent untoward incidents. Strict action will be taken against those possessing illegal weapons, and police must monitor and control fake news on social media. Officers must engage with all sections of society as protectors of law and order.

Given the increasing involvement of juveniles in crimes, CM Fadnavis emphasized the need for strict action against young offenders and their handlers. Fast-track courts for women’s cases will be strengthened, and kidnapping cases must be closely tracked, with responsible officers submitting timely reports.

He also addressed the issue of industrial extortion and blackmail, stating that strict action will be taken against individuals, regardless of political affiliation, who threaten businesses. The government will not tolerate blackmailing, ensuring that industries function smoothly.

CM Fadnavis emphasized the importance of discipline within the police force, transparency, and teamwork. Maharashtra Police ranks as the top police force in India, and they must utilize new laws effectively to maintain law and order.

Key Takeaways from the Conference

Speaking to the media after the conference, CM Fadnavis highlighted discussions on:

• The implementation of three new criminal laws in Maharashtra.
• Strategies to strengthen cybersecurity and the MahaCyber Center.
• Measures to prevent crimes against women and children, ensuring prompt charge sheet submissions.
• Steps to tackle drug trafficking and enforce a zero-tolerance policy. Any police officer found involved in drug-related cases will be dismissed from service.

During the conference, Director General of Police Rashmi Shukla elaborated on the significance of the meeting. Presentations were made by senior officers on topics such as new criminal laws, crimes against women and children, cybercrime, narcotics, forensic infrastructure, and industrial facilitation. The conference concluded with the release of the updated Police Manual.