Have people in Cuttack lost trust in the Commissionerate Police? Well it seems so from the way the citizens have now taken up the mantle to rid the streets of criminals.
Several residents of the newly developed CDA Sector 13 area in the city have now started patrolling at night. The reason, residents allege that there has been a spurt in incidents of thefts and other petty crimes since the past few weeks but the vigilance on part of the Twin City Police is falling insufficient to alleviate apprehension from their minds.
From foot patrol to using two-wheelers, the local residents’ association members have now taken up the responsibility to ensure the security of the region which lacks basic civic amenities like proper illumination of the streets after nightfall.
Holding sticks and torches in hand, the residents can be seen moving from one locality to the other to guard themselves as well as the neighbourhood.
Apart from the elderly and youths, several women members of the residents’ association are also actively taking part in the night patrol at CDA Sector-13 area which is being developed in a phased manner.
“We don't feel safe here as there are no street lights. Due to rise in thefts, we are living under perpetual fear. Being a working woman, I also feel scared while returning home after evening,” said Anuradha, a resident.
The locals alleged that due to irregular patrolling by the police, there has been a rise in anti-social activities in the area. Besides, the number incidents of thefts, robberies and snatchings have increased manifold in the recent past.
Meanwhile, Cuttack DCP, Prateek Singh said, “CDA Sector 13 is a new area. There have been no such reports of rise in thefts or any property offence. But as people are feeling isolated and have requested for increasing patrolling in the area, vigilance is maintained regularly.”
Singh said that the residents should not fear as an extra platoon force has been deployed to carry out checking and other security-related measures during night hours.
“Once the work for Naraj aid-post is complete by this month, we can better monitor the area as there are plans for extra deployment of force,” Singh added.