By Patel said Gujarat’s economic progress was closely linked to effective law enforcement and the dedication of its police personnel. He also praised the force for maintaining peace during the recent Navratri celebrations, stressing that security and public confidence are essential for sustained growth.
Ceremony Honours Police Personnel Who Laid Down Their Lives
Police Commemoration Day is observed across India every year on October 21 to remember personnel who died while carrying out their duties. The occasion recognises the courage and commitment of those who put public safety ahead of their own lives.
At the programme held at the Shahibaug Martyrs’ Memorial in Ahmedabad, the names of police personnel from Gujarat who had died in the line of duty were read out. Members of the police force then offered a disciplined salute, while the police band played a solemn dirge in their memory.
The ceremony brought together elected representatives, serving officers and retired senior police personnel to pay their respects to the martyrs.
Patel Highlights Police Role in Gujarat’s Development
Addressing the gathering, Patel said the dedication of the police force and the state’s law-and-order situation had contributed to Gujarat’s position as an important driver of India’s economic growth.
He emphasised that a secure atmosphere was necessary for businesses, communities and public institutions to function effectively. The chief minister praised Gujarat Police for their commitment to maintaining peace and public safety and expressed gratitude to personnel who had made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the state and the country.
Patel also congratulated the force for its management of security during the recent Navratri festival, when large numbers of people participated in celebrations across Gujarat. He said maintaining order during major public events reflected the importance of police preparedness and dedication.
National Police Memorial Recognises Sacrifice
The chief minister also referred to initiatives taken during Narendra Modi’s tenure as Gujarat chief minister to recognise the contribution of police personnel. He highlighted the establishment of the National Police Memorial and the inauguration of the Police Museum in Delhi as efforts to honour the force’s sacrifices and increase public awareness of its responsibilities.
Patel said such initiatives help preserve the memory of police martyrs while introducing younger generations to the challenges and importance of policing.
Elected Representatives and Senior Officers Attend
Several public representatives paid floral tributes at the Shahibaug Martyrs’ Memorial. Those present included Member of Parliament Dinesh Makwana and MLAs Hasmukh Patel, Kaushik Jain, Amul Bhatt, Dineshsinh Kushwaha and Kanchanben Radadiya. Retired senior police officers also attended the ceremony.
Senior officials from Gujarat’s police and prison administration were present, including State Police Chief G. S. Malik, Director General of Prisons K. L. N. Rao, Director General of Police (Training) Nirja Gotru, Ahmedabad Police Commissioner Anupam Singh Gehlot and Additional Director General of Police Khurshid Ahmed, along with other officers and personnel.
The commemoration served as a reminder of the risks faced by police personnel in the performance of their duties. Patel’s message placed their sacrifice at the centre of the state’s commitment to public safety, peace and development.
