New Delhi: Innovations have a great role to play in making policing smart and ensuring smooth and effective citizen outreach, said Sanjay Singh, Special Commissioner, Delhi Police, in an exclusive dialogue with Navneet Anand, Editor-in-Chief of Bureaucrats India, adding that policing is a challenging profession, especially in context of India that has the world’s largest population.

“Our country is full of diverse cultures and sensitivities, which dominate Delhi like anything. Being the melting pot of cultures, many Indian cultures live within Delhi. Thus, policing in the capital is extremely demanding and intricate. Delhi police adopts an inclusive and technology driven approach to enhance people’s security and maintain order in the capital via smart policing,” he said.

Singh, an IPS officer of 1990 batch, among other duties is tasked with the very critical division of Perception Management and Media Cell. He also overlooks the licensing, legal, technology, planning and implementation division.  Previously he has been Special Commissioner of Police, Law and Order, Delhi; Special Commissioner of Police, Western Zone; and the Joint Commissioner of Police Northern Range Delhi.

He said: “Over the last 15 years, policing in India has seen a drastic transformation. Where previously the relationship between the police and the citizens was that of fear and distrust, today we see a more humane, transparent, and proactive side of the force. During Covid-19 pandemic, police forces across India played a critical role in navigating the citizenry through the challenging times.”

In reply to a question, Singh admitted: “Policing is a demanding profession, particularly as every call received by the police is from someone in distress. It is, therefore, essential for officers to respond empathetically to the caller. Additionally, conducting investigations with integrity is critical, followed by seamless legal proceedings. To bridge the gap between the police and citizens, filing e-FIRs is a convenient solution being implemented.”

Talking about emerging challenges in policing, in particular cyber crime, Singh said that cyber criminals are experienced in exploiting vulnerabilities for their gains. “We monitor them and take necessary measures, which lowers cybercrime rates. However, to reduce the impact of cybercrimes, people must be more aware of such activities. We conduct educational programs, mass awareness campaigns through films, short films, and ads. We teach people about cyber bullying, stalking, pornography, and phishing.”

Reflecting further about measures taken to improve security and vigilance across the city, Singh highlighted the installation of CCTV cameras as a crucial force multiplier. He said the Delhi Police has adopted advanced digital communication systems, installed 9,000 AI-equipped cameras, and introduced e-Beat books for beat constables linked with the Crime Criminal Tracking System and the Inter-Operable Justice System. He informed that the Delhi Police is working on Community Policing Scheme, Anti-Drug Drives, and Interfaith and Interface initiative, which help youth fight radicalization.

In his message to aspiring Civil Servants, Singh said: “There is a lot of competition. It is a challenging feat but do not get disheartened. Do not stop dreaming. Just stick to hard work, sincerity, and determination. These are the values that will help you sail through the process.” /BI/