Fadnavis on Policing Law Reimagining Policing: CM Fadnavis Highlights Law, Technology, and Economic Growth at IPF Meet
MUMBAI – The Indian Police Foundation (IPF) Annual Day in Mumbai became a platform for visionary discourse as Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis delivered a powerful keynote on the intersection of policing, technology, and economic development. The event brought together top police officials, policymakers, and thought leaders to deliberate on how law enforcement can drive a secure, prosperous, and forward-looking India.
Policing and Economic Growth: Two Sides of the Same Coin
CM Fadnavis began by underscoring the crucial link between law and order and India’s economic aspirations. “No economic superpower can exist without law and order. Even if it does, it won’t be sustainable,” he stated, emphasizing that crime-free and safe environments are essential for industrial growth and societal progress. Drawing inspiration from ancient texts like the Vedas and Kautilya’s Arthashastra, Fadnavis stressed that the state’s responsibility is to maintain societal balance while nurturing development.
In a lighter moment, the CM joked about Bollywood stereotypes, noting that Mumbai Police always arrives on time, contrary to popular cinematic depictions. His humor underscored a deeper point: professionalism and integrity in policing are non-negotiable for societal trust.
Technology as the Driving Force
Fadnavis likened technology to a horse, powerful yet reliant on its rider. “Technology gives momentum, but the rider decides the direction,” he said, highlighting Maharashtra’s efforts to integrate AI and advanced tools into policing. The state now houses India’s most sophisticated cybersecurity center, attracting interest from four countries looking to replicate the model. AI-driven initiatives, like the Marvel Organization, help solve complex cases efficiently, preparing the police for modern challenges ranging from cybercrime to financial fraud.
Legal Reforms and Justice
The Chief Minister applauded historic reforms in IPC, CrPC, and the Indian Evidence Act, describing them as essential to modern democratic governance. Outdated colonial-era provisions have been updated to promote efficiency, expedite justice, and reduce misuse. Fadnavis humorously referenced the iconic “Date after date” line from Bollywood’s Damini, explaining that the new framework now limits adjournments to just two, enhancing deterrence and ensuring timely resolution of cases.
Combatting Modern Threats
Fadnavis identified white-collar crimes, cybercrime, and the drug menace as contemporary threats demanding proactive policing. He called drugs the “biggest internal threat,” emphasizing Maharashtra’s zero-tolerance policy and the need for innovative technological tracking to dismantle illicit networks. Financial justice, too, was highlighted as integral to societal confidence, ensuring that victims recover their dues swiftly.
Integrity: The Core of Transformation
Echoing sentiments of IPF leaders, Fadnavis stressed that integrity must permeate all layers of society. “Without integrity, we can never become a developed India. Lack of integrity fuels many of our issues,” he stated, linking ethical governance with economic and social development. His message reinforced the idea that policing is not just enforcement but empowerment, shaping India’s journey toward a secure and prosperous future.
The Path Forward
Concluding his address, Fadnavis praised the wealth of experience present at the event and affirmed the government’s commitment to adopting innovative ideas from the IPF forum. His vision aligns law enforcement with technology, legal reforms, and economic goals, emphasizing that a secure and just society is the backbone of India’s $5 trillion economy ambition.
Disclaimer: This article is based on public speeches and statements and is intended for informational purposes only.
