Gadchiroli, a remote district in Maharashtra affected by Maoist activities, is set to establish 28 Armed Police Outposts (AOP) as new police stations. This move aims to improve law enforcement in the region and provide legal assistance to the population residing in far-flung areas.
With these additional police stations, Gadchiroli will have a total of 57 police stations, including existing ones and sub-police stations. The AOPs will now be eligible for a special grant of ₹2.5 crore from the central government under the fortified police station category. This funding will assist in strengthening the infrastructure and capabilities of these outposts.
The Gadchiroli police have identified 14 posts, including both existing and proposed ones, to be developed as fortified police stations. These stations have received a budgetary allocation of ₹35 crore. The initiative has been supported by Deputy Chief Minister and District Guardian Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also holds the home portfolio. In total, a budgetary allocation of ₹57 crore has been made for the Gadchiroli police.
The Deputy Inspector General of Police, Sandip Patil, who also heads the State Anti-Naxal Operation (ANO), stated that the primary objective of this initiative is to eliminate Maoism and reduce their influence in Maharashtra as quickly as possible.
One of the significant benefits of establishing these AOPs as police stations is the convenience it brings to the local population. Previously, people living in remote areas had to travel long distances of around 30-40km to register their complaints or seek legal assistance at existing police stations. For instance, residents of Gatta Jambia had to travel to Etapalli, while those in Laheri had to journey to Bhamragarh, both located approximately 40km away. However, with the new AOPs designated as police stations, individuals can now report offenses and file FIRs at these nearby outposts, reducing the need for extensive travel.
Moreover, the AOPs will now be able to offer services that were previously exclusive to police stations, like issuing character certificates. This development will greatly benefit the local community, allowing them to access essential services without the inconvenience of long journeys.
With the establishment of these additional police stations, the aim is to provide effective law enforcement, uphold justice, and enhance the overall security situation in Gadchiroli. By bringing the services closer to the people, this initiative aims to address their legal needs promptly and efficiently.
This move highlights the government’s commitment to combating Maoist activities and ensuring the safety and well-being of the citizens in remote regions. The deployment of armed police outposts as new police stations is a step towards establishing a stronger presence of law enforcement agencies in these areas and curbing the influence of Maoist elements.
Overall, this development is expected to have a positive impact on the residents and contribute to the ongoing efforts to bring about peace and stability in Gadchiroli.
