The State government will soon increase the police force and improve various facilities for them, Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi told the Assembly on Wednesday.
In his response to CPI leader V. Sivapunniyam, who complained that policemen were facing workload owing to inadequate strength, Mr. Karunanidhi wondered the sudden concern of Communists who would normally criticise the police.
Besides demanding weekly holidays for the policemen so that they could spend time with their families, the CPI leader suggested that the government consider rejuvenation programmes.
To a query by DMK member M. Appavoo, Mr. Karunanidhi said the strength of the police force in Tamil Nadu was 1,04,783. They have been accommodated at 45,847 houses constructed by the government.
The Chief Minister rejected PMK leader G.K. Mani's suggestion to post a battalion at Mettur Dam to ensure its safety.
“Police alone cannot protect the dam. Whether it is Mettur Dam or any other dam, a combination of rules and regulations alone can protect them. The battalion is not necessary because Mettur is not a sensitive area. We need policemen to ensure that no one is misusing the dam. Only those who rule the country can protect the dam. We can do it,” Mr. Karunanidhi said.
The Chief Minister said 32 new quarters were being constructed for the police in Palani. The construction will be over by March 2011.
