November 15: Reaffirming its commitment towards public welfare, accessible policing and strengthening police public relations, Police in Awantipora organised a Police-Public Meet at Aripal, chaired by SSP Awantipora, Shri Irshad H. Rather-JKPS.
The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from local residents, traders, respectable citizens, youth, Numberdars, Chowkidars and Former Panchayat Members/Representatives and other members of the public. The meeting provided an important platform for direct interaction, enabling participants to highlight their grievances, share suggestions and raise issues concerning public safety, social welfare, law and order and other matters affecting the local community.
The programme was attended by SDPO Tral, SHO Police Station Tral, Incharge Police Post Aripal and other police/CRPF officers.
During the interaction, SSP Awantipora gave a patient hearing to the participants and took detailed feedback on the issues highlighted by them. He assured the gathering that all genuine grievances would be examined sympathetically and necessary action would be initiated on priority. Issues requiring intervention of other departments would also be taken up with the concerned authorities for appropriate resolution.
Addressing the gathering, SSP Awantipora emphasised that the role of police extends beyond maintaining law and order and includes serving the people, safeguarding their rights, protecting their lives and property and contributing towards the overall welfare of society. He stressed that public satisfaction, trust and confidence are essential components of effective policing and that Awantipora Police remains committed to addressing people’s concerns with sensitivity, fairness and accountability.
He underlined the importance of maintaining a strong police-public partnership and stated that meaningful public participation enables the police to understand ground-level issues, identify emerging challenges and take appropriate measures for the safety and welfare of the community. He encouraged citizens to approach police stations without hesitation for assistance, guidance and redressal of their genuine grievances.
SSP Awantipora also highlighted the need for collective efforts to address various social challenges, particularly drug abuse. He called upon parents, teachers, religious leaders, community elders and youth to play an active role in preventing substance abuse and guiding the younger generation towards constructive and positive activities. He emphasised that protecting youth from drugs is a shared social responsibility requiring sustained efforts from all sections of society.
He further sensitised the participants about cybercrime, online frauds, traffic violations, adherence to traffic regulations, tenant verification and other preventive measures. He urged the public to remain vigilant, follow safety advisories and promptly share information regarding suspicious activities and traffic violations with the police to ensure public safety and strengthen the overall security environment.
Emphasising the importance of public cooperation in crime prevention and security management, SSP Awantipora encouraged traders and business establishments to install CCTV cameras wherever required to strengthen surveillance and contribute towards creating a safe environment for the general public.
He also informed the participants about the dedicated Awantipora Police helpline 7051404859 for reporting illegal mining and other criminal activities. He appealed to citizens to utilise the facility and share timely information to enable prompt intervention and legal action against violators.
Reiterating the people-friendly approach of J&K Police, SSP Awantipora assured that the police administration would continue to remain accessible to the public and work in close coordination with local communities to address their genuine concerns. He emphasised that regular public interaction programmes are instrumental in bridging the gap between the police and citizens, promoting transparency and ensuring that policing remains responsive to the needs and expectations of society.
The participants appreciated the initiative and welcomed the opportunity to interact directly with the senior police leadership and put forth their concerns and suggestions.
The programme concluded with SSP Awantipora calling upon all sections of society to work collectively for maintaining peace, communal harmony, social discipline and a secure environment, while extending their continued cooperation to the police in combating crime and addressing issues of public importance.
