Guwahati, Mar 29: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Friday stated that stringent measures taken by the state police have led to a significant drop in crime rates, ensuring smooth governance over the past few years.
Speaking at the Dikshant Parade of 70 Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) probationers at the North Eastern Police Academy (NEPA) in Umiam, Meghalaya, Sarma reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making Assam a crime-free and drug-free state. He praised Assam Police for its firm approach against criminals and its proactive efforts in maintaining law and order.
The chief minister highlighted that the crime rate per lakh population in Assam has decreased substantially, from 349 in 2020 to 139 in 2024. The charge sheet rate has improved from 47.8% to 66.7%, while the conviction rate has increased to 22.9% in 2024. Crimes against women have also seen a sharp decline, from 26,352 cases in 2020 to 5,555 in 2024. Additionally, strict action against child marriage offenders has led to a sharp rise in case registrations, increasing from 138 in 2020 to 5,498 in 2023.
Sarma also highlighted the police’s aggressive crackdown on drug trafficking, which has resulted in the seizure of narcotics worth ₹2,885 crore since 2020 and the destruction of over a thousand bighas of illegal cannabis and opium cultivation. In 2024 alone, 3,323 drug-related cases were registered, showcasing the administration’s tough stance on narcotics.
Congratulating the newly inducted DSPs, the chief minister said that the successful completion of the 54th Basic Course at NEPA marks a significant milestone in their careers. He commended the rigorous training at NEPA, which has trained over 5,000 DSPs and Sub-Inspectors since its inception in 1978.
Among the 70 DSPs passing out in the 54th batch, 62 are from Assam and eight from Mizoram. Sarma expressed confidence that their training would prepare them to effectively tackle law enforcement challenges while upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
