Iqbal JakatiKarnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah distributed new blue peak caps to police personnel at a ceremony held in the Banquet Hall of Vidhana Soudha on Monday. Speaking on the occasion, he said, “Merely changing uniforms or caps will not bring change — what truly matters is dedication and performance.”
The event, organized by the Department of Home Affairs, also witnessed the launch of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force and the Sanmitra Programme.
Highlighting the need for modernization, the Chief Minister said the old caps had been in use for nearly seven decades and had received frequent complaints regarding their design and quality. “The new cap, though blue in colour, is designed in line with the ones worn by senior officers. It will enhance your confidence and self-esteem,” he added.
Praising the police force, Siddaramaiah pointed out that the Karnataka Police recently secured the top rank in the ‘India Justice Index’, calling it a matter of pride for the state. He also emphasized the crucial role of police personnel in building a drug-free Karnataka.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who was also present, described the introduction of the new cap for constables as a “historic decision.” He said, “Soldiers protect our borders, while police personnel are the protectors of our safety within the country.”
Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara informed that the proposal to introduce new caps for constables had been under consideration since 2015. After reviewing designs from several states, the Chief Minister personally selected the new blue design, he added.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister also announced the formation of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force to curb the menace of drugs across the state. In addition, he launched new health and compensation schemes for police personnel and the families of martyred officers.
Those present at the event included the Chief Minister’s Political Secretary Nasir Ahmed, MLA Rizwan Arshad, Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh, Director General of Police Dr. A.M. Saleem, and several senior officials.
