Expressing concern over the increasing cases of cybercrime in the State, Home Minister G. Parameshwara informed the Legislative Council on Thursday that the number of such cases had increased from 10,572 in 2020 to 21,984 by 2024.
Responding to JD(S) member S.L. Bhoje Gowda on the law and order situation in the State, Dr. Parameshwara said Karnataka has set up an exclusive cyber unit to deal with cybercrimes and a DG-rank officer has been appointed. “This is a first in the country. Cyber fraudsters are stealing crores of rupees from bank accounts every day. They are stealing data. The emphasis of our cyber unit, which comprises a DG, ADGP, IG, and seven SPs, is monitoring and curbing cybercrime cases,” he said.
Refuting the Opposition’s allegations that the law and order situation in the State was deteriorating, he said: “Crime rate has fallen over the years. From 1,315 murder cases that were registered across the State in 2020, the number reduced to 1,208 in 2024. While 1,340 were registered in 2021 and 1,346 in 2022, 2023 saw 1,294 cases. This year, since January, 100 murder cases have been registered. The police are working round-the-clock to control the crime rate.”
Wheeling
Admitting that the number of wheeling cases are on the rise in Bengaluru, Dr. Parameshwara said strict action is being initiated. In 2023, Bengaluru recorded 242 wheeling cases and 264 persons were arrested. “In 2024, the city recorded 532 cases and 479 persons were arrested. This year so far, 114 wheeling cases have been registered and 102 persons have been arrested,” he said.
Hooliganism
Pointing out that strict legal action has been taken against miscreants who indulged in hooliganism with deadly weapons, the Home Minister said in 2023, 68 cases were registered and 147 accused were arrested. “In 2024, 187 accused in 66 cases were arrested and this year so far 86 miscreants accused in 26 cases were arrested. As soon as such cases come to light, legal action is being taken against them and strict punishment is being given,” he said.
Dr Parameshwara said Hoysala vehicles and ASIs have been given revolvers. “We have a 24-hour beat system and special focus is on Bengaluru. We have adopted the system being followed by the London Metro Police in times of emergency for people,” he said.
7,000 CCTV cameras
He said the 7,000 high resolution CCTV cameras with AI technology have been installed in 1,640 places in Bengaluru city to monitor and check crime. “We have provided body-worn cameras to the police. We will extend the same security measures across the State,” he said.
Published – March 06, 2025 08:03 pm IST