‘I will fulfil my mandate by working within the system’
Outgoing Puri SP Uma Shankar Dash has been appointed deputy commissioner of police in Bhubaneswar. He speaks to Debabrata Mohapatra on the road ahead
How challenging is basic policing in the middle of a pandemic?
Not just policing, every field of human activity has been adversely affected by the pandemic. Policing is an essential service and cannot be shut down or scaled down. The virus poses a big risk for our field staff. We have to perform our duty amid social distancing and face masks, by complying with the government’s Covid-19 guidelines.
What are your priorities for the new post?
I will first try to understand the basics. Only then will I be able to draw a roadmap. But there is something called a system and that system works. I will be a part of the system and fulfil my mandate.
How have you ensured better functioning of police stations?
It has been my focus to encourage staff in police stations to work for the benefit of the people and act tough against criminals. Police can command respect through good conduct and transparent functioning.
Are crime control and delivery of services to citizens taking a beating amid the pandemic?
I do not think so. Police always work amid challenges. As the pandemic has created an unprecedented situation, we have to fight it and ensure that the grievances of the people are properly addressed at the police stations. Both visitors and our colleagues at police stations should adopt all safety precautions.
How hard was it to conduct the Rath Yatra this year?
It was a big challenge. With the support of the public and team work of all government departments and leadership of senior officers, Rath Yatra passed peacefully. All stakeholders, including servitors and the media, did their best.