Uttar Pradesh Special DG, Prashant Kumar, addressed concerns about the high number of encounters in the state and the perception of impunity in an interview with The Indian Express. He emphasized that encounters are just a small part of the state government’s overall strategy, which includes a zero-tolerance approach towards criminals and providing operational autonomy to the police.
According to Kumar, the effectiveness of the state’s law and order policy cannot be solely attributed to encounters. He credited Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for his leadership and vision in steering the state towards a safer environment. Kumar highlighted systemic changes in policing, stable tenures for police officers, fair postings, and independent decision-making as factors that have boosted police morale and deterred criminals.
Regarding the number of casualties and injuries in encounters, Kumar stated that encounters are not the primary strategy for controlling heinous crimes or dealing with hardened criminals. Instead, the focus has been on making fundamental changes in the priorities of the government and the police force. He acknowledged that some encounters involve individuals without a history of serious crimes, but he justified them as acts of self-defense when first-time offenders or individuals with lesser criminal records attack the police.
In response to concerns about accountability, Kumar mentioned that magisterial inquiries into encounters are closed without contestation, suggesting that family members of deceased criminals are free to depose before the magistrate without intimidation from the police. He also emphasized the presence of independent bodies such as the NHRC, SHRC, media, and judiciary, which oversee the fairness of police actions.
Kumar rejected the notion that encounters are unique to Uttar Pradesh, pointing out that similar incidents occur worldwide. He highlighted the transformation of law and order in the state, which has attracted investments and improved its ranking in the ease of doing business.
Regarding the judicial process, Kumar stated that encounters follow guidelines set by the PUCL and undergo necessary scrutiny by the NHRC. He emphasized that every encounter is followed by an investigation and is subject to court scrutiny, ensuring that the judicial process is not short-circuited.
In response to concerns about impunity, Kumar reassured that there is no impunity for the police. He emphasized that investigations and independent magisterial inquiries take place after every encounter. If any police officer is found guilty of misusing their powers, they will be dealt with according to the provisions of the law.
Overall, Kumar defended the state government’s approach, highlighting the reduction in crime and the sense of fear among criminals and mafias. He portrayed encounters as a necessary part of a broader strategy aimed at maintaining law and order in Uttar Pradesh.
