'One Mandal, One Police Officer' Scheme Implemented for Festivals in the State

In Brief

• 'One Committee, One Police Officer' for festivals in the state

• One police officer responsible for the entire committee

• Responsibility to coordinate with the administration and committee to conduct the festival

(Maharashtra Police) A new plan is being implemented by the police to ensure the smooth conduct of festivals in the state. Under the initiative 'One Mandal One Police Officer', a separate police officer will be appointed for each mandal. The responsibility of that officer will be to maintain constant contact with the mandal during the festival period and to ensure law and order. This is considered the first initiative of its kind to be implemented in Maharashtra.

According to the plan, a list of all mandals within the jurisdiction of each police station will be prepared. Depending on the number of available officers, each will be given the responsibility of one or two mandals. The appointed officer will coordinate by holding meetings with the mandal officials and resolve issues during the festival period.

Festivals like Ganeshotsav, Navratri, Dahi Handi, Moharram, Shiv Jayanti, and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Jayanti are celebrated on a large scale. During this time, the police face additional workload. Crowd control, traffic management, issues related to permissions, and avoiding disputes become challenging tasks. Against this backdrop, this plan is being implemented with the main objective of maintaining the safety and peace of the citizens.

Additionally, a WhatsApp group will be created for the appointed police, board officials, and the police station. This will ensure information is communicated quickly and will help avoid misunderstandings, disputes, or tensions. The Director General of Police has expressed confidence that this initiative will strengthen the coordination between the police and the board, ensuring that festivals and celebrations are conducted peacefully and safely.