Delhi Police officers from different units and squads clad in their crisp uniforms marched on the grounds of New Police Lines in Kingsway Camp along with platoons from Uttar Pradesh, Haryana and Maharshtra Police on a cold Saturday morning.
Minister of Home Affairs Rajnath Singh who was the chief guest at 72nd Raising Day of Delhi Police could not make it at last minute and was replaced by Lieutenant-Governor Anil Baijal. Puducherry L-G Kiran Bedi was also among the special guests but did not address the audience.
Commissioner of Police Amulya Patnaik, in the very beginning of his address, mentioned the Pulwama attack in which 40 Central Reserve Police Force officers were killed.
“We wish strength for the families of the martyrs and speedy recovery of the injured officers. The presence of U.P., Haryana and Maharashtra Police shows that we are together against terrorism,” he said adding that fighting terrorism is a topmost priority and the force is prepared to face any threat.
Tea cancelled
After decorating officers with medals for gallantry and meritorious service, Mr. Baijal also briefly mentioned Pulwama attack and expressed solidarity. He also stressed on the importance of visible policing and that officers should be polite while dealing with public.
“If a person approaches a police officer, he should have a pleasant impression of the force,” he ended his note.
In the wake of the Pulwama attack, the customary tea was also cancelled as a mark of respect.
The “tea”, officers said is a period for officers across cadres to meet and greet. Former Commissioners of Police M.B. Kuashal, B.K. Gupta and Neeraj Kumar were also present at the event.
