The chief minister batted for an image makeover of the state police while paying tributes to the policemen, who laid down their lives while discharging duties, on the 'Police Smriti Diwas' here.
"Complaints of harassment of people at police station level were being received and if not checked then stern measures would have to be taken," he said.
In the changing scenario, nature of the crime was also changing, which was posing new challenges before police, but they also have to shoulder the responsibility of safety and security of common people, he said.
Akhilesh said, "in the time of crisis a person expects help from the police, therefore they should realise their importance and provide immediate relief to the people keeping in mind dignity and responsibility of their post."
"The role of police should be very strict with anti-social elements and criminals," he said, adding besides human rights, police should give special emphasis on the security of women and children.
If all these things were kept into consideration credibility of police would increase and help in improving the image of the government, Akhilesh said.
Strengthening police system was one of the main priority of his government and it was being done in a planned manner, the chief minister said.
Priority of the government was to strengthen the law and order situation, which completely collapsed in the previous regime, and to ensure communal harmony and peace, he said.
Talking about the forthcoming Kumbh Mela in Allahabad, the chief minister said it was a big challenge before the police to ensure that no inconvenience was faced by the pilgrims. MORE
