Here comes ‘Little Police’ to win over the society

The second phase, to be called ‘Young Cop’, will include college students, which is expected to be implemented next year.

Addressing the school children in Panaji on Wednesday, IGP Sunil Garg said police officials would be involved in organising awareness camps on topics ranging from traffic rules and regulations to drug abuse and cyber crime.

“We have planned year-long activities with traffic rules and signages being taken up in the month of January, July and December. Crimes against women and children and cyber crimes are other important issues we will take up. Drug and narcotics awareness will be taken up in the month of March and October,” he said.

Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar emphasised on the need and importance for school children to be sensitised on issues regarding traffic. “In the last year, over 300 people have died on the roads. 80 percent of these deaths are of people in the 16-30 age group. It is a matter for introspection as good traffic habits need to be inculcated at a young age,” he said.

The Chief Minister also said the youth could play a role in the proper management of rules pertaining to road rules and safety.

DGP TN Mohan on the other hand highlighted the need for the gap created between the society to be bridged with a campaign of this sort. “There is a danger of being misunderstood and not getting along with the members of the society. This is where the younger crowds fit in. They need to be taught from a young age that police are not enemies and that it is possible to co-exist with them,” said Mohan.

Students inducted into the campaign have been given special ID cards with crucial numbers for reporting any incidents. Additionally, they will also be encouraged to visit their local police stations on a regular basis.