CM D.K. Shivakumar Seeks Centre’s Support for Karnataka Police Modernisation, Cyber Security and Prison Reforms
New Delhi, June 12: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Thursday submitted a comprehensive memorandum to Union Home Minister Amit Shah seeking the Centre’s support for strengthening Karnataka’s security infrastructure, enhancing police capabilities, modernising prisons and improving cybercrime response systems across the state.
During a meeting with the Union Home Minister in New Delhi, the Chief Minister outlined a series of proposals aimed at transforming Karnataka’s policing and security ecosystem through infrastructure upgrades, advanced technology deployment, capacity building and institutional reforms.
The memorandum includes requests for additional India Reserve Battalions, modernization of police infrastructure, financial support for command-and-control centres, prison security enhancements and the creation of a dedicated cybercrime control and coordination unit.
President’s Colour Award for Karnataka Police
One of the key requests pertains to the conferment of the prestigious President’s Colour Award on the Karnataka State Police.
The state government informed the Union Home Minister that a proposal seeking the honour was submitted to the Government of India on May 8, 2024 and is currently under consideration.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar requested the Centre to expedite the proposal and grant approval for the award, which is regarded as the highest recognition bestowed upon a police force for exceptional service and dedication.
The Karnataka Police is yet to receive this prestigious distinction despite its contributions in maintaining law and order, tackling organised crime and implementing modern policing practices.
Proposal for Two Additional India Reserve Battalions
The Chief Minister sought approval for the establishment of two additional India Reserve Battalions (IRBs) in Vijayanagara and Ramanagara districts.
According to the proposal submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs on February 4, 2025, the project is estimated to cost ₹243.87 crore.
The additional battalions are expected to strengthen the state’s capacity to respond to law-and-order challenges, disaster situations, anti-Naxal operations and other security requirements.
₹280 Crore Proposal Under Police Modernisation Scheme
Karnataka has also sought financial assistance under the Assistance to States and Union Territories for Modernisation of Police (ASUMP) Scheme 2025-26.
A proposal worth ₹280 crore has been submitted for establishing advanced Command and Control Centres and upgrading communication infrastructure in four major cities of Karnataka.
The Chief Minister urged the Centre to approve the proposal at the earliest to improve operational efficiency, surveillance capabilities and emergency response systems.
CSR Funds for Police-Related Activities
Another important proposal seeks the inclusion of police-related activities under Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013, thereby allowing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds to be utilized for policing initiatives.
The state government believes that access to CSR funding could significantly enhance community policing programmes, public safety projects, technological interventions and citizen outreach initiatives.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar requested early approval of the proposal to enable private sector participation in strengthening policing infrastructure.
Upgradation of Police Training Institutions
The Chief Minister also sought approval for a detailed proposal worth ₹258.53 crore aimed at upgrading infrastructure in police training institutions across Karnataka.
The proposal has been prepared in accordance with the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) Gap Analysis guidelines.
The planned upgrades include improvements to training facilities, technology infrastructure, accommodation and modern instructional systems to better equip police personnel for emerging security challenges.
Modernisation of Prisons Across Karnataka
Seeking stronger prison security and management systems, the Karnataka Government requested the release of ₹20 crore under the Prison Modernisation Scheme for the financial year 2025-26.
The funds will be utilised for procuring modern surveillance equipment including CCTV cameras, walkie-talkies and other security devices aimed at strengthening prison administration and inmate monitoring systems.
Extension for Implementation of Motor Vehicle Rule 52-A
The Chief Minister also requested intervention regarding the implementation timeline of Rule 52-A of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
The state has already written to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways seeking an extension for implementation in Karnataka.
D.K. Shivakumar requested Union Home Minister Amit Shah to take up the matter with the concerned ministry and facilitate early approval.
₹278.26 Crore Proposal for CCTV Upgradation in Police Stations
Referring to discussions before the Supreme Court of India regarding surveillance standards in police stations, Karnataka has submitted a proposal worth ₹278.26 crore under the ASUMP scheme for upgrading CCTV systems across police stations in the state.
The project aims to improve transparency, accountability, evidence preservation and overall monitoring within police facilities.
The Chief Minister urged the Centre to consider the proposal favourably.
Karnataka Cyber Crime Control and Coordination Unit (K4C)
Highlighting the growing threat posed by cybercrime, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar proposed the establishment of the Karnataka Cyber Crime Control and Coordination Unit (K4C).
The state government plans to create the specialised cyber security and cybercrime response unit at an estimated cost of ₹360 crore.
According to the proposal, the K4C initiative will serve as a dedicated platform for cyber threat intelligence, digital investigations, cybercrime prevention, inter-agency coordination and technological capacity building.
The Chief Minister informed the Union Home Minister that a detailed project report will be submitted shortly and requested the Centre’s support and approval for the initiative.
Strengthening Karnataka’s Security Ecosystem
The memorandum reflects Karnataka’s broader strategy to modernise policing, improve public safety infrastructure, strengthen cyber security preparedness and build advanced law-enforcement capabilities.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar emphasized that timely approval and support from the Union Government would significantly enhance the state’s ability to address emerging security challenges and deliver more efficient policing services to citizens.
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