Bengaluru, October 29, 2025
In a resounding endorsement of the state's law enforcement prowess, the Karnataka Police has been ranked number one in the India Justice Report, a comprehensive assessment of performances across police, prisons, judiciary, and legal aid sectors. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah celebrated this achievement as a major boost to Karnataka's dignity during the virtual inauguration of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and other police reforms at the Vidhana Soudha Banquet Hall on Tuesday.
"The State government earns a good name through the efficiency of the police department. The India Justice Report has ranked Karnataka number one and this has enhanced the dignity of the State," Siddaramaiah said, addressing police personnel and officials gathered for the event. He emphasized that such accolades underscore the department's role in upholding the government's reputation and urged officers to build on this momentum to tackle emerging challenges like the narcotics epidemic.
The launch of the ANTF marks a decisive step toward Siddaramaiah's vision of a "drug-free Karnataka," with the Chief Minister calling on the force to eradicate the menace at its roots. Headed by an Additional Director General of Police (ADGP)-rank officer and comprising a sanctioned strength of 58 dedicated personnel, the task force will coordinate with national agencies to bolster enforcement against drug trafficking and peddling. "A drug-free Karnataka was my goal and asked the people to join him and make it their goal, too, to help the police fight the menace," the CM stated, appealing directly to youth, students, and citizens to resist narcotics.
Siddaramaiah issued a stern warning to errant elements within the force, noting reports of some personnel colluding with real estate dealers and drug networks, which has eroded public fear of law enforcement. "You know who sells and brings drugs, from where the drugs come, and who the agents in this network are. Let the State become a ‘Drug-Free Karnataka’ as soon as possible. Make it happen and prove it," he implored, adding that determined action could elevate the Karnataka Police's prestige to international standards.
Complementing the ANTF's formation, the event also saw the release of the "Sanmitra Action Plan" handbook, a rehabilitative initiative promoting a compassionate approach to addiction. Under Sanmitra, police constables will monitor released drug peddlers and addicts for two to three years, guiding them toward reintegration as productive citizens rather than treating them solely as offenders. Home Minister G. Parameshwara highlighted the plan's role in addressing narcotics as a "major social menace," crediting recent seizures of drugs worth ₹250-300 crore over the past two years to the department's vigilance.
In a symbolic nod to modernization, the Karnataka government bid farewell to the 70-year-old British-era slouch hats, introducing navy blue peaked caps for head constables and constables to enhance comfort and professionalism. The new uniform headgear, personally selected by Siddaramaiah, will be rolled out to all eligible personnel within a month. "It’s not just the cap that should change; your efficiency should also change," the Chief Minister quipped, underscoring that reforms must extend beyond aesthetics.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar reinforced the CM's call for apolitical policing, advising officers: "Do not become political followers under any circumstances. Your duty and confidence should never waver. The success of the police is the success of the government." Director General and Inspector General of Police M.A. Saleem assured strict action against any future involvement in illicit activities, stating, "If they are found involved again, strict action will be taken."
The India Justice Report, released earlier this year, evaluates states on key justice delivery metrics, positioning Karnataka's holistic approach as a national benchmark. With the ANTF now operational, officials expressed optimism that these combined efforts—enforcement, rehabilitation, and reform—will swiftly transform Karnataka into a model drug-free state, further solidifying its leadership in justice administration.
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