INDIA. Mumbai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address to the 90th general assembly of the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) on Tuesday, said there could be no safe havens for terrorists, drug cartels, poaching gangs, and organized crime and urged the Interpol to speed up red corner notices against fugitive offenders.
In his inaugural speech at the 90th general assembly at Pragati Maidan Venue in New Delhi, Modi said India has 780 active red notices, of which 205 are related to criminals wanted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Interpol issues red notices corner to locate a fugitive who has fled the country where he is wanted. A member country can arrest or deport an individual against whom Interpol circulates such a notice.
Referring to terrorism, corruption, drug trafficking, poaching, and organized crime, Modi said that the pace of change of these dangers is faster than before.
“At the click of a button, an attack can be executed, or systems can be brought to their knees. But what we do within our borders is no longer enough. There is a need to further develop international strategies,” Modi added.
“Such crimes against people in one place are crimes against humanity. These not only harm our present but also impact our future generations. Police and law enforcement agencies need to devise procedures and protocols to increase cooperation”, Modi said.
The Prime Minister also called for establishing early detection and warning systems, protecting transportation services, security for communication and critical infrastructure, technical and technological assistance, and intelligence exchange, many of these things need to be taken to a new level.
Universal Cooperation
This calls for universal cooperation to make the world a better place. India is one of the top contributors in sending brave men and women to the United Nations Peacekeeping operations. Even before our own independence, we made sacrifices to make the world a better place.
Thousands of Indians fought and died in the world wars. From climate targets to COVID vaccines, India has shown a willingness to take the lead in any kind of crisis. India calls for more, not less, international cooperation. Global cooperation for local welfare is our call, Modi said.
Speaking to the 195 member countries of Interpol, which included a delegation from Pakistan led by its Federal Investigation Agency Director General Mohsin Butt, the PM said India has been combating transnational terrorism for several decades.
India is home to the highest mountain ranges, one of the driest deserts, some of the thickest forests, and many of the world’s most densely populated cities. India packs the features of continents in just one country.
For example, India’s most populous state, Uttar Pradesh, has a population close to Brazil’s. Our capital, Delhi, has more people than the whole of Sweden.
Diversity
The Indian police deal with over 900 national and around 10,000. People from all the major religions live here. There are hundreds of languages and dialects spoken. Massive festivals attract millions of devotees.
The “Kumbh Mela,” the largest and longest spiritual mass gathering in the world, had 240 million pilgrims. Elections involve arrangements for around 900 million electors. This is close to the population of the North and South American continents taken together.
About 2.3 million police personnel assist in the election process. In upholding diversity and democracy, India is a case study for the world.
India is hosting the Interpol general assembly after a gap of about 25 years to coincide with celebrations for the 75th anniversary of India’s independence. The valedictory function will be held on October 21.
Upon his arrival, Modi was welcomed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Interpol President Ahmed Naser Al Raisi, and Secretary General Jurgen Stock. He was introduced to the Executive Committee by the Interpol President.
The PM then viewed the Interpol Centenary Stand. Then Modi inaugurated the National Police Heritage Display, and also walked through the place.
Upon his arrival on the dais, Modi witnessed the Entrance of the Colours – a march past by the ITBP contingent. This was followed by the National Anthem of India and the Interpol Anthem.
The Prime Minister was presented with a bonsai plant by Ahmed Naser Al Raisi. The PM also released a commemorative postage stamp and a Rs 100 coin to mark the 90th general assembly. CBI Director Subodh Kumar Jaiswal was among those present on the occasion.
Also Read: The 90th General Assembly of the Interpol to Be Held in New Delhi
