Madurai CPI(M) seeks pre-emptive policing after 8 murders in 11 days
The Communist Party of India (Marxist) Madurai urban district unit has expressed concern over a spate of murders in the city, urging the police to take preventive measures rather than acting only after crimes occur. The party's district committee meeting, chaired by executive committee member M. Balasubramaniam on Monday, highlighted that eight murders were reported between July 30 and August 9, a situation it said has caused panic among residents.
In a statement, the party noted that the primary responsibility of the police is not to investigate crimes after they happen but to anticipate and prevent them. It called on senior police officials to study the recent trend immediately and implement step up law and order measures.
The CPI(M) also pointed to the availability of banned psychotropic substances, including ganja, and the rising number of youth becoming addicted to them, as a breeding ground for violence and criminal activity. It demanded stringent, continuous action to curb the sale and smuggling of drugs.
Emphasising the role of the intelligence department, the party said it is vital in foreseeing and preventing criminal incidents. It also suggested that some police personnel have been posted in the same positions for years, and administrative changes are needed to improve effectiveness.
Increased patrolling in crime-prone areas was another demand, along with pre-emptive actions to prevent revenge attacks, gang clashes, and easy access to drugs. The party stressed that the government and police must work together to create a safe environment for Madurai residents to lead fearless lives.
Beyond policing, the CPI(M) called for the resumption of city bus services on 41 routes that have been suspended, saying the disruption is affecting students, workers, and ordinary commuters.
The party also raised concerns about the treatment of roadside vendors, urging the police to stop taking action against them without notice. It said vendors should be allowed to operate at locations permitted by the Madurai Corporation and that their legal rights should be protected. It further recommended that the Madurai Corporation conduct the vending committee election without delay and form zone-wise teams comprising corporation officials and vendors to resolve issues.
The meeting was attended by state executive committee member Madhukkur Ramalingam, district secretary M. Ganesan, and other district committee members.
