Assam Police Day: Governor Honors IPS Officers with President’s Medal

Celebrating Assam Police Day

Guwahati, Oct 1: During the 75th Assam Police Day celebrations held at the 1st Assam Commando Battalion in Mandakata, five distinguished IPS officers were honored with the President’s Medal for their exceptional service by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya.

This event marked a pivotal moment in the history of Assam Police, as the Governor paid homage to those who sacrificed their lives in service and praised the force for its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state.

In his address, Acharya commended the officers and personnel for their resilience in facing various challenges, including border security, militancy, natural disasters, and societal issues.

He emphasized that the police's strength lies in the trust of the community, stating, “When individuals approach the police, it should be with confidence, not fear, knowing they will be heard.” This highlights the necessity for a people-centric approach to policing.

Acharya asserted that women should feel secure, the marginalized should receive support from law enforcement, and every citizen should trust the police, reflecting the true essence of the Assam Police motto: “For the welfare of the people, in the service of the people.”

Referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of SMART policing, he outlined its five essential components: strict and sensitive, modern and mobile, alert and accountable, reliable and responsive, and techno-savvy and trained.

He underscored the importance of modernization in policing, highlighting the increasing use of data analytics, cyber forensics, digital evidence, CCTV, drones, command-and-control systems, and advanced communication technologies in security operations.

Acharya also mentioned the laying of the foundation stone for the new headquarters of the 10th Battalion of Assam Police by the Union Home Minister earlier this year, calling it a significant step towards enhancing the force's capabilities.

Expressing concern over the rising issue of substance abuse, he described drug addiction as a critical challenge that impacts youth, disrupts families, and undermines society. He praised the Assam Police's efforts against narcotics and urged them to intensify their campaign for a drug-free Assam, referencing his Nasha Mukt Bharat Sankalp Padyatra and encouraging police involvement in broader social initiatives.

Recognizing the demanding nature of police work, Acharya urged officers to embody courage, sensitivity, discipline, and integrity in their duties.

“Let your courage be your strength, sensitivity your identity, technology your capability, discipline your foundation, integrity your reputation, and public service your highest duty,” he stated.

He expressed confidence that the Assam Police would continue to uphold its legacy while integrating modern technology and professionalism into their community-focused policing efforts.

Earlier, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also congratulated the police force, acknowledging their dedication to public service and state security.

“The people of Assam enjoy peace because there are those in uniform guarding us 24/7. On Assam Police Day, I salute every officer and personnel of @assampolice for their courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment. We are proud of you,” Sarma shared on a social media platform.

The five officers awarded are Surendra Kumar, Additional Director General of Police (Vigilance and Anti-Corruption) and Director of Fire and Emergency Services; Partha Sarathi Mahanta, Commissioner of Police, Guwahati, and Inspector General of Police (Traffic and Road Safety); Kankan Jyoti Saikia, Inspector General of Police (East Range), Jorhat; Indrani Baruah, Inspector General of Police (CWR); and Ratna Singh, Inspector General of Police (SB).

Director General of Police Harmeet Singh, along with senior police officials and other dignitaries, were present at the celebrations.