THE MISSING COPS

THE STATE POLICE NOW OUTSOURCES ROUTINE TECH JOBS LIKE MOBILE PHONE TRACKING, BUT THERE'S NO SUBSTITUTE FOR BOOTS ON THE GROUND IN, SAY, DRUG CONTROL

- Jumana Shah

Looking at the rising pressure from drug trafficking along Gujarat's coastal region and an ever-expanding migrant population in urban areas, the state police would be needing more strength. However, the force is operating with a serious deficit, especially in the senior leadership, affecting the whole chain of command. The latest National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data is proof that Gujarat lags in crime management: the state's top two cities, Ahmedabad and Surat, have ranked among the top 10 crime cities of India. The state has also struggled with other indices for instance, it recorded the highest number of custodial deaths for the third consecutive year in 2023 and placed second nationwide for the murder of children under six.

Of the sanctioned 208 posts of Indian Police Service (IPS) officers, 184 are currently filled. Moreover, 23 of them are out on deputation, and one is under suspension. As of October, a total of 48 senior positions remained vacant, with the situation likely to worsen as around 11 more officers are set to retire next year.