Police funds up, Nirbhaya share shrinks

Delhi Police had plenty to cheer about as the Budget provided an increased allocation of funds to them from last year. Figures show the total budget allocated to the Delhi Police was Rs 7,426.98 crore, which in the previous year it was Rs 6,378.18 crore.

But what was also interesting to note is that despite the increase in total funds, allocation for the Nirbhaya Fund actually fell from last year. In this year, out of a total Rs 7426.98 crore, Rs 19.75 crore was for the safety of women. This figure fell from Rs 28.90 crore allocated to the Nirbhaya Fund last year.

On a more positive note, greater emphasis was given to infrastructural development in the police. Statistics noted that allocation of funds for infrastructural development has nearly doubled over the past two years. From Rs 252.50 crore in 2016-17 it is now Rs 460.95 crore in 2018-19.

With the increase in funds from the Budget, the Delhi Police plans to include schemes such as developing traffic and communication network in the Capital to a more robust system, upgradation or expansion of communication infrastructure, technological upgradation of training, induction of latest technology for busting crime and investigations and procurement of advanced and useful equipment for better monitoring and vigil.Delhi Police also plans to focus on women safety under the Nirbhaya Fund. "We will set up a mobile forensic lab, install more CCTV cameras and cover all the dark zones of the Capital to ensure safety of women, would utilise the allocated Nirbhaya Fund," said a senior police officer.