Panchayats, police to work in tandem to curb caste violence

Jaswinder Singh Baidwan

Akhran da mureed
Staff member
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The police want newly elected sarpanches to play a role in curbing incidence of caste violence and crimes against women.
They also seek their help to rein in drug trafficking, drug addiction and road blockades in villages.
The police have also decided to hold workshop for the sarpanches to make them aware of their role under the Panchayati Raj Act.
The IGP, Anil Kumar Rao, yesterday said the police had identified areas where they and sarpanches would work in tandem. “During an interaction with 85 sarpanches, we have zeroed in on some issues of importance for the police and administration. They have been sensitised about the problems related to caste violence that often takes a bitter turn, causing rift in ties of communities. The sarpanches who have the confidence of people are capable in handling such disputes,” he said.
The caste violence in Bhagana and Mirchpur villages had damaged social ties among people of different castes. Despite many attempts by the administration, the issue remains unresolved.
Rao said crimes against women and the occurrence female feoticide could also be checked with the help of panchayats. “The SHOs in coordination with the sarpanches would keep tabs on dubious elements who indulge in liquor smuggling and drug trafficking”.
Jyoti (21), sarpanch of Juglan village, said the police’s initiative instilled a confidence in sarpanches. “My panchayat will urge everybody to be a law-abiding citizen. I hope that with the cooperation of villagers, ours will be an ideal village.”
Suman Sharma, sarpanch of Nyoli Kalan village, said the illegal sale of liquor was a big business in her village and she had sought help of the police. “The IGP has assured that a special drive will be launched against the illicit trade,” she claimed.
 
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