Bengaluru: N S Megharikh, a 1987 batch IPS officer, who took charge as new City police commissioner on Friday, said that he would lay stress on all three levels of policing – underground policing, on the ground policing and above the ground policing, during his stint.
“I served in Bengaluru City on four different occasions. I have solid knowledge and experience of grassroots policing. Hence, I think it is an opportunity for me to use that experience and serve as police commissioner,” Megharikh, who took charge as the 31st police commissioner of the City told reporters.
He admitted that the Bengaluru police were heavily dependent on social media at present and have slightly neglected the basic policing. “ Social media is very important to get connected with the public. But, I feel those who lack the knowledge and facility of social media should also be heard. Hence, I will give equal importance to different levels of policing,” he said. Megharikh has earlier served in Bengaluru as DCP (HQ), DCP (East), DCP (South) and Additional Commissioner of Police (CAR).
‘Nobody a subordinate’
“Nobody is subordinate to me. Nobody works under me, but along with me. I believe in team spirit and ensure better policing in the City,” he said.
Megharikh said he would not let any hype around him. “ Hard work, no hype is my mantra. I will appear before the public only after a commendable job. I will never appear before the public and list out my priorities,” he said.
Megharik said his immediate challenge was to ensure free and fair BBMP polls. “I have the experience of conducting gram panchayat polls that ended recently in a peaceful manner. I hope to ensure the same in the BBMP polls as well,” he said.
He said the police department would never have the desired strength.
“I admit that the biggest problem of the department in the City is shortage of staff. The process to recruit 2,800 candidates is on, but they would be added to the force only after one-and-a-half years.
I will ensure judicious allocation of available human resources and ensure basic policing, he added.
He said he is open to suggestions and constructive criticism and would be available for the public.
“I will not let the image of the government tarnish as the government has chosen me for the commissioner’s post,” he said. Megharikh said he had the hint of being appointed as the commissioner two days ago.Megharikh, who hails from Rajasthan, holds a post graduate degree in Commerce.