Pune’s New Police Chief, Amitesh Kumar, Pledges Enhanced Visible Policing and Public Confidence
Pune, 2nd February 2024: The newly appointed Pune Police Commissioner, Amitesh Kumar, affirmed on Thursday that a focus on “Visible Policing” would be intensified in the city, and all necessary measures would be taken to instill confidence in vulnerable sections of the population.
Taking charge from the outgoing commissioner, Retesh Kumaarr, the senior police officer emphasized that “Basic Policing” is the cornerstone of police work, encompassing maintaining law and order, preventing and detecting crime, traffic management, VIP security, women’s safety, cybercrime, economic offenses, and child safety – all of which will be immediate priorities.
The 1995 batch IPS officer’s appointment to the top post was announced by the Maharashtra Home Department on late Wednesday evening. Kumar outlined his commitment to swift resolution of citizen grievances and addressing issues faced by police constables and officials. He emphasized the need for inclusivity, bringing all stakeholders together for positive results. “We will analyze crime statistics, law and order issues, drug hotspots, areas vulnerable to women’s safety, and ways to enhance visible policing and police effectiveness. In this big city, we will engage everyone to find long-term solutions to every issue,” he stated.
Regarding traffic concerns in the city, Kumar expressed, “Regulation and decongestion of traffic will be chief concerns, based on evidence-based enforcement and deterrence. We will identify congestion hotspots and work towards their decongestion.”
Responding to a media query about compulsory helmet use, Kumar asserted, “Helmet use is mandatory, just like wearing seat belts, and it will be implemented as per the rules. Traffic offenses such as wrong-side driving, riding triple seat, and other violations will be strictly dealt with. Crime-related issues will be addressed through effective prevention and control, marking it as a topmost priority. The top twenty criminals at each police station will be identified, and strong action will be taken against them,” he affirmed.
