‘Jab rakhewala hi khेत charne lage, to akshamya apradh ban jata hai.’ These words from Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah capture the betrayal felt by millions when police turn rogue.
Addressing senior IPS officers, the CM painted a grim picture of systemic malaise. Officers allegedly running protection rackets for sand mafias, builders, and gamblers undermine the state’s security fabric. Siddaramaiah demanded accountability: ‘Every complaint must lead to inquiry within 48 hours.’
Backed by tech upgrades, the crackdown intensifies. AI-driven complaint portals and anonymous reporting apps aim to bypass corrupt gatekeepers. The CM spotlighted success stories—like a Bengaluru squad dismantling a bribery syndicate netting ₹2 crore monthly.
Critics point to deeper issues: abysmal cop-to-citizen ratios and paltry salaries fueling graft. Siddaramaiah countered with promises of salary hikes and housing for lower ranks. ‘Reform from within; empower the honest majority,’ he urged.
As Karnataka grapples with rising crimes—from cyber frauds to communal tensions—a clean police force is non-negotiable. Siddaramaiah’s khapacharra (whip) aims to whip the force into shape. Will it stick, or fade into political posturing?