CM chairs State Police Conference, emphasizes investigation-prosecution coordination for timely justice

GANGTOK,: The State Police Conference 2026 was held on Monday at Chintan Bhawan here under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, bringing together the leadership and rank and file of Sikkim Police for deliberations on policing priorities, national security and criminal justice reforms.

A press release informs that the conference was attended by the Chief Secretary, Director General of Police, DG Vigilance & Anti-Corruption, L.R.-cum-secretary (Law), Home secretary, Additional Advocate Generals, Director of Prosecution along with senior public prosecutors, public prosecutors and assistant public prosecutors, all police officers of SHO rank and above, DySP probationers under training, and representatives from all ranks of Sikkim Police.

DIG, Gangtok Range & CB- CID presented the comprehensive outcomes of the 60th DGP–IGP Conference held at Raipur in November 2025.

The presentation highlighted the interventions of the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister and outlined 123 key national recommendations focusing on technology integration, internal security, women’s safety, forensic strengthening and institutional reforms. The review also covered the 2025 Action Taken Report and the 2026 implementation roadmap with structured quarterly monitoring.

Addressing the gathering, the Director General of Police called for people-centric, service-oriented policing with sincerity, professionalism and pride.

The Chief Secretary commended Sikkim Police for maintaining peace and tranquility in the State, describing it as the foundation of development, and emphasized the importance of mental resilience in policing. He also acknowledged the Chief Minister’s continued support and visionary leadership, the release mentions.

A key highlight of the conference was six thematic presentations - three by the Department of Prosecution and three by Police Teams - focusing on strengthening investigation–prosecution coordination to enhance conviction rates under the new criminal law framework. The sessions included a SWOT analysis aimed at improving institutional synergy. Newly recruited DySP probationers also shared insights from their training at the North Eastern Police Academy and practical exposure with Delhi Police.

In his keynote address, the Chief Minister emphasized that police conferences serve as vital platforms for policy formulation but derive strength from effective implementation at the grassroots level with participation from all ranks. He noted that policing has evolved from traditional enforcement to multifaceted responsibilities requiring adaptability, integrity and technological competence. Urging officers to take immense pride in the uniform, he described it as a symbol of “identity, trust, respect and responsibility.”

Highlighting Sikkim’s strategic position bordering China, Nepal and Bhutan, he stressed that constant vigilance is essential to safeguard peace. “National security is paramount - sustainable development follows tranquillity,” he affirmed.

The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s dual welfare focus since 2019 - prioritizing both citizens and police personnel through timely promotions and welfare measures to ensure a motivated and service-oriented force. He directed strict adherence to a structured rotation policy, mandating exposure across Law & Order, Vigilance, Special Branch, Check-posts, Traffic and IR Battalions. He observed that prolonged or home postings may hinder professional growth and performance due to local obligations and suggested home postings primarily toward the culmination of service, the release mentions.

Emphasizing the importance of investigation–prosecution coordination in delivering timely justice under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita timelines, he called for enhanced training and 21^st Century digital competencies. Referring to the rising threat of cybercrime, he stressed that even beat constables must educate citizens and remain technologically aware, stating that “presence of mind at cutting-edge levels shapes the image of the police.” He assured full support to the Director General of Police in meeting operational and mobility requirements.

During the conference, the Chief Minister felicitated three Best SHOs and three Best Investigating Officers (IOs) in recognition of their outstanding performance. He congratulated Sikkim Police on being conferred the prestigious President’s Police Colours, the highest national honour awarded for years of exemplary service and dedication.

The Best SHOs felicitated were PI Niraj Khatiwada, SHO Sadar; PI Pradeep Chhetri, SHO Pakyong; and PI Joshna Gurung, SHO Temi. The Best IOs felicitated were PI Shekhar Basnett, SHO Uttarey; PI Ongchyo Bhutia, PI Sadar Police Station; and PI Laxuman Gajmer, PI Singtam Police Station.

The conference concluded with a lunch hosted by the Chief Minister in honour of Sikkim Police personnel, reaffirming the collective commitment towards professional, modern and people-friendly policing in the State, the release mentions.