Gangtok, May 28: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday called for a more citizen-friendly policing system and urged police forces to function as supportive institutions for society while addressing the ceremonial presentation of the President’s Police Colour to the Sikkim Police at Palzor Stadium in Gangtok.
Presenting the prestigious President’s Colour to the Sikkim Police, Murmu said the honour recognised the force’s outstanding service and dedication over the years. She congratulated both serving and former police personnel associated with the force and described the recognition as a matter of pride for the entire police department.
The President noted that the Sikkim Police, established in 1897 to secure the India-Tibet trade route, had continued to play an important role in maintaining peace and security in the Himalayan state. Apart from maintaining law and order, she said the force had also actively assisted citizens during natural disasters and emergencies. She further highlighted that several officers from the force had received United Nations Peacekeeping Medals for their service in UN missions.
Speaking on policing reforms, Murmu said the Indian policing system had long remained influenced by colonial-era practices, where the emphasis was more on control and governance rather than public service. She stressed the need to move away completely from such thinking in order to strengthen democratic values and empower citizens.
The President said transparency and accountability in policing were essential and stressed that every citizen should be able to register complaints and grievances without difficulty. She also called on police personnel to display sensitivity towards women, children and vulnerable sections of society, adding that the police should function as a friend and guide to the public to build trust.
Murmu said policing was not limited to apprehending criminals but also involved building a safe and aware society. She praised the Sikkim Police for maintaining a professional and people-friendly relationship with citizens and said the force had earned public respect through its conduct and service.
Highlighting Sikkim’s strategic importance as a border state and a major tourist destination, the President said the responsibilities of the police force were particularly significant. She urged the Sikkim Police to work closely with national security agencies and prepare for emerging threats such as cybercrime, online fraud, hacking and deepfake-related offences.
“To deal with these challenges, the police must strengthen their capabilities in the latest technology, cybersecurity and digital investigation,” she said, while also emphasising the importance of coordination among police forces and investigative agencies across states.
Describing the President’s Colour as one of the highest honours for a police force, Murmu expressed confidence that the Sikkim Police would continue to serve the nation with dedication and uphold the dignity associated with the recognition.
