Criminals Must Fear the Law, Citizens Must Feel Secure: CM Sai

Raipur, October 13

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said that the image of the police should be such that it instills fear among criminals and a sense of safety among citizens. The Chief Minister was addressing the Collector–SP Conference held today at the Mantralaya (Mahanadi Bhavan).

The conference reviewed the overall law-and-order situation in the state, narcotics control, road safety, cybercrime prevention, and measures to strengthen administrative coordination. Present on the occasion were Home Minister Vijay Sharma, Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel, Additional Chief Secretary Manoj Pingua, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Subodh Kumar Singh, DGP Arun Dev Gautam and other senior officials.

*Law and Order: CM warns of strict accountability*

Chief Minister Sai said that maintaining law and order in districts requires equal coordination between the Collector and Superintendent of Police (SP). He observed that districts where both officers work in synergy show better outcomes. He cautioned that any negligence in maintaining law and order will be treated as administrative indifference, and stern disciplinary action will follow.

The Chief Minister directed officials to adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward public disorder, knife attacks, murders, and other heinous crimes. He instructed that strict surveillance be maintained over cow smuggling and illegal religious conversions, with swift and tough action against offenders. He further advised that the best-performing districts in crime control be treated as model examples for replication in other regions.

*War on Drugs: Narcotics eradication to remain top priority*

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai took a firm stance on tackling drug abuse and illegal narcotics trafficking, calling them “the root of all crimes.” He instructed officers to launch a statewide campaign under NCORD (National Coordination on Drug Control), focusing on border districts and ensuring timely legal action under the NDPS Act.

He further emphasized conducting public awareness drives, especially among youth, to educate them about the dangers of substance abuse and its social impact. “Eradicating addiction is the first condition for restoring law and order,” he stated firmly.

The Chief Minister informed that a Special Task Force (STF) has been constituted to identify and control illegal infiltrators in the state. He directed intensive checks in border districts and immediate action on suspicious activities. “Ignoring smaller crimes often breeds major ones — every case must be addressed within a fixed timeframe,” he cautioned.

*Rehabilitation of Surrendered Maoists*

The meeting also discussed the rehabilitation and livelihood empowerment of surrendered Maoists. CM Sai said that building trust in the government’s rehabilitation policy remains a top priority. He instructed that surrendered Maoists be provided skill development training and linked to local employment or self-employment opportunities, enabling them to live with dignity in the mainstream.

*Road Safety: CM calls for strict enforcement*

The Collector–SP Conference witnessed in-depth discussions on improving road safety. The Chief Minister called for strict enforcement against traffic violations, including those not wearing helmets or seatbelts. Directions were issued to identify and correct accident-prone black spots, prohibit the use of DJs and loudspeakers after 10 PM, and take punitive action against drunk driving.

Officials were also asked to take effective measures to prevent accidents caused by stray animals. “Every accident is preventable if discipline and awareness go hand in hand,” CM Sai said.

*Cybercrime: Modern threat requires modern response*

Expressing concern over the rising cybercrime menace, the Chief Minister said it has become the most complex challenge of the modern era. He stressed the need for continuous technical training for police personnel to deal with emerging threats.

He directed that the cyber helpline number be publicized widely with the support of the Public Relations Department, and that awareness campaigns be launched in every district to protect citizens from phishing, online fraud, and digital scams.

*Transparent, accountable, and Team-Driven Governance*

In his concluding remarks, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said that transparent and accountable administration, team spirit, and shared responsibility are the true foundations of a Developed Chhattisgarh. He emphasized that governance can only be effective when every officer fulfills their duties with integrity and works as part of a cohesive team.