Varanasi: Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Krishna on Sunday clarified that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing allegations of irregularities in the Ram Temple donation funds was constituted following a formal request from the Temple Trust itself.
Addressing reporters after chairing a meeting of the standing committee related to the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanvapi matter in Varanasi, the DGP said that every religious institution functions through its own trust and established administrative mechanisms. Whenever any complaint is received by the police, it is examined in accordance with the law.
“The Ram Temple Trust requested for the constitution of an SIT to probe the allegations. Taking note of the demand, the state government formed an SIT,” IPS Krishna stated.
Extradition Efforts Underway Against Alleged Codeine Smuggling Kingpin
The DGP also spoke about the ongoing efforts to bring back Shubham Jaiswal, the alleged kingpin of a multi-crore codeine cough syrup smuggling network who is reportedly hiding in Dubai.
According to Krishna, authorities have completed all legal formalities required under India’s extradition treaties and mutual legal assistance arrangements with foreign countries.
He noted that extradition proceedings typically take time due to international legal processes. However, to prevent the diversion of illegally acquired assets and safeguard the interests of victims, authorities have already initiated measures to freeze and secure the financial holdings of the accused and his associates.
“Necessary legal procedures have been completed. Since extradition takes time, steps have also been taken to ensure that the assets of the accused and gang members are protected from being siphoned off,” he said.
Smart Traffic Management Showing Results Across Uttar Pradesh
Highlighting traffic management initiatives launched by the state government, the DGP said Uttar Pradesh Police has introduced a technology-driven traffic monitoring programme in 20 districts with support from Google.
Under the initiative, authorities identified 230 major traffic corridors across the state, including 11 critical routes in Varanasi, where congestion is a recurring issue.
The system receives dynamic traffic data on weekly, fortnightly and monthly intervals, helping authorities analyze travel times during peak and non-peak hours and implement corrective measures.
According to Krishna:
- Around 230 traffic corridors have been identified statewide.
- Eleven key corridors are located in Varanasi.
- Traffic congestion points across the state have reduced by nearly 24% after two months of implementation.
- Peak-hour travel times have improved significantly.
- Public representatives have also reported positive feedback regarding the initiative in Varanasi.
“We receive traffic data automatically through Google and use it to identify bottlenecks and improve mobility. After two months of implementation, choke points reduced by about 24% across the state,” he said.
Strong Action Against Gangsters and Organized Crime
Reiterating the Uttar Pradesh government’s tough stance against organized crime, the DGP asserted that law enforcement agencies have significantly weakened criminal networks over the past eight to nine years.
“The backbone of gangsters and mafia has been broken and they will not be allowed to raise their head at any cost,” he said.
He added that the police department is compiling intelligence and criminal data down to the mohalla level to identify and dismantle local gang networks more effectively.
Cybercrime Remains a Key Challenge
Mr Krishna identified cybercrime as one of the biggest emerging challenges facing law enforcement agencies.
With the rapid increase in digital transactions, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, cyber fraud and online financial crimes have grown substantially.
The DGP said the Uttar Pradesh Police is treating cybercrime as a priority area and strengthening capabilities to combat online fraud, digital scams and cyber-enabled criminal activities.
Zero-Tolerance Policy Continues
The DGP emphasized that under the leadership of Yogi Adityanath, the state police remains committed to a zero-tolerance approach toward crime and criminals.
Key priorities of the Uttar Pradesh Police include:
- Maintaining law and order
- Ensuring women’s safety
- Protecting traders and businesses
- Reducing road accidents
- Combating organized crime
- Strengthening cybercrime enforcement
Mr Krishna said the police force will continue to focus on technology-driven policing and proactive crime prevention measures to improve public safety across the state.
