Traffic Cops Must Show Courtesy, Not Treat Citizens as Criminals: Pune Police Commissioner
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 26th February 2025: Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar has directed traffic police to take action against rule violators without engaging in arguments and to treat citizens with courtesy. He also announced plans to establish a dedicated training institute for traffic police officers in Pune, similar to the one in Mumbai.
Kumar was speaking at a dialogue program organized by the Pune Union of Working Journalists (PUWJ) at Patrakar Bhavan in Navi Peth. The event was attended by the PUWJ president, Sunit Bhave, and general secretary, Meenakshi Gurav.
Highlighting Pune’s ongoing traffic challenges, Kumar stated that the police are working in coordination with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and other government agencies to improve the situation. He emphasized that traffic police play a crucial role in public relations and should not treat drivers or pedestrians as criminals.
“In Mumbai, police officers undergo training before being deployed to the traffic branch. We are planning to set up a similar training institute in Pune. The search for a suitable location is underway, but training has already begun. The first batch of 50 traffic police personnel has completed their training,” Kumar said.
The police commissioner revealed that ₹1,000 crore has been allocated for traffic-related works and infrastructure in Pune. Additionally, 800 new police personnel have been recruited, and ₹435 crore has been sanctioned for installing state-of-the-art CCTV cameras across the city.
Seven new police stations have also been inaugurated to enhance law enforcement efforts.
Kumar issued a strong warning against habitual offenders, stating that those involved in acts of violence and vandalism will face strict action under laws like MCOCA (Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act) and MPDA (Maharashtra Prevention of Dangerous Activities Act).
“If criminals do not reform even after preventive action, strict measures will be taken to ensure their next seven generations do not forget,” he warned.
The commissioner also assured that action would be taken against those who protect or support criminals, referring to them as “Aaka” (patrons of criminals). “Attempts to pressure the police or shield criminals will not be tolerated. Last year, 20 to 25 individuals were arrested for circulating videos intended to spread fear on social media. We will continue to act against such activities,” he said.
With Pune grappling with traffic congestion and crime-related concerns, these measures are expected to enhance both law enforcement efficiency and public trust in the police force.
