NEW DELHI: The concept of ‘onenation-one-uniform’ for the cops triggered an intense debate at the conference of state Home Ministers in Surajkund.
The idea received applaud from some, including Chief Ministers of the BJP-ruled states who hold the home portfolio, while the Opposition-ruled states considered it an intrusion by the Centre in their domain.
“It is just an idea. I am not trying to impose it on you. Just give it a thought. It may happen, it may happen in five, 50, or 100 years. But let’s give it a thought,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his video address at the meet.
He also seconded Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s call for uniform law and order policy. “Cooperative federalism was not only the feeling of the Constitution but also the responsibility of the states and the Centre,” he added. The PM said even though law and order is a state subject in the Constitution; it is equally linked with the unity and integrity of the country.
He asked all agencies – both Central as well states – to cooperate with each other to ensure efficiency, better outcomes and protection to the common man. “Working together by states for internal security is a constitutional mandate as well as responsibility towards the nation,” he said.
Earlier, in his opening address, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said the twoday conclave was organised to provide a common platform to face challenges before the nation such as cyber-crime, spread of narcotics and cross-border terrorism in unison.
“Today the nature of crimes is changing and they are becoming borderless. All states will have to battle these by having a common strategy,” he said, adding that Team India’ approach is promoting the 3Cs – Cooperation, Coordination and Collaboration between the Centre and the states.
The Chief Ministers of eight states and Home Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers of 16 states gathered at the event, which was also attended by the heads of Central and state police forces.
