Khalistani Separatist Pannun Issues Threats Ahead Of Bhubaneswar DGP/IGP Meet, PM Modi’s Visit

Amid threat from Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the top brass of India's police force will convene for the annual conference of directors general and inspectors general on Friday.

It's an important occasion where pressing issues such as internal security, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, and the threat posed by pro-Khalistan elements are on the agenda. This year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval are among the key figures expected to participate in the discussions, which will also cover the challenges of cybercrime, AI tools, and drone threats.

Ahead of the event, Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has released a video message, issuing a threat to disrupt the event

"DGP terror conference where, under the influence of violent Hindutva ideology, they plan and orchestrate killings of pro-Khalistan Sikhs, Kashmiri fighters, Naxals, and Maoists. Axis of evil Modi-Shah-Doval are bringing the biggest security threat to Bhubaneswar," The Times of India quoted him as saying in the video.

"Come in disguise and take cover in temples, hotels in Bhubaneswar to disrupt the DGP conference," he added.

Over 450 high-ranking officers will engage in the conference, with 250 attending in person and more than 200 joining virtually. They will delve into a range of critical topics through presentations and discussions. These include counter-terrorism efforts, combating online fraud, tackling narcotics smuggling, addressing cross-border terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, neutralizing activities of pro-Khalistani groups, and countering left wing extremism. The aim is to outline strategies to meet the evolving challenges in internal security.

Since 2014, the conference has expanded its scope to not only focus on national security but also improve core policing practices aimed at crime prevention and detection, community policing, law and order, and enhancing the police force's public image. The shift from a Delhi-centric approach has fostered unity among officers and organizations, allowing for a more cohesive strategy in tackling the country’s pressing issues. The gathering in Bhubaneswar continues this tradition, providing a platform for sharing best practices among states and Union territories, fostering a collaborative environment for learning and improvement.

The interactions at the conference, including informal discussions over meals, offer senior police officials a unique opportunity to share their insights and suggestions directly with Prime Minister Modi on pivotal policing and internal security matters. This direct line of communication has been instrumental in aligning the police force's objectives with national priorities, leading to actionable recommendations.

The decision to move the venue outside New Delhi each year has marked a significant shift in the approach to these conferences. Since the Modi government's inception, the location has rotated among various cities across India, including Guwahati, Dhordo in the Rann of Kutch, Hyderabad, Tekanpur, Kevadiya, Pune, Lucknow, and Delhi, with plans for Jaipur in 2024. This move has not only decentralized the conference but also highlighted the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping policing strategies.

The conference has seen an increase in the number of business sessions and topics, reflecting a deeper focus on policing in the service of the people. The engagement doesn't end with the conference; follow-up on the recommendations is rigorous, with a dedicated secretariat tracking progress. This systematic approach has led to significant policy changes and improvements in policing standards, incorporating modern, smart policing methods suitable for both rural and urban settings.