Sikkim Police’s role sensitive and significant: President
The Statesman | 29 May 2026
President of India Droupadi Murmu on Thursday described the responsibilities of the Sikkim Police as “both sensitive and significant,” noting that the force must work in close coordination with national security agencies while simultaneously ensuring the safety and assistance of tourists visiting the strategically important Himalayan state.
Addressing the ceremonial presentation of the President’s Police Colour to the Sikkim Police at Paljor Stadium in Gangtok, the President highlighted Sikkim’s strategic location as a border state sharing international boundaries with three neighbouring countries.
Speaking on the changing nature of policing in a democratic society, the President observed that India’s policing system, once influenced by colonial administrative practices centred largely on control, has undergone significant transformation in independent India.
She said the police today must emerge not merely as an enforcement agency but as collaborators and guides for citizens, fostering trust, transparency and accountability in society.
Emphasising the need for a more citizen-friendly policing system, the President said people should be able to approach the police without fear. She also stressed the importance of sensitivity towards women, children and vulnerable sections of society.
“The responsibility of the police is not confined only to apprehending criminals,” the President said, adding that the force also plays a crucial role in building a safe, aware and harmonious society.
Praising the Sikkim Police for maintaining peace and communal harmony in the state, she said the force had earned the affection and respect of the people through its professional and people-friendly approach.
According to the Information and public relations department of Sikkim, the ceremony commenced with the arrival of the President, who was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour and National Salute by contingents of the Sikkim Police.
Congratulating officers and personnel of the force, the President described the conferment of the President’s Police Colour as a matter of immense pride and recognition of the force’s exceptional and distinguished service to the nation.
She also commended the parade contingents for their disciplined and impressive performance during the ceremonial event.
Highlighting the legacy of the Sikkim Police, established in 1897, the President said the force has continued to play a vital role in maintaining peace, security and justice in the state. She noted that apart from maintaining law and order, the force has rendered commendable service during natural disasters and emergencies by extending timely relief and assistance to people.
The President also acknowledged the achievements of Sikkim Police personnel serving in United Nations peacekeeping missions, several of whom have been honoured with the UN Peacekeeping Medal.
Referring to emerging technological threats, the President expressed concern over cybercrime, online fraud, hacking and deepfake-related offences. She stressed the need to equip police personnel with advanced technological skills, cybersecurity awareness and digital investigation capabilities to effectively combat such crimes.
She further highlighted the importance of greater coordination among police and investigative agencies across states and underlined the need for increased public awareness to prevent cyber-related offences. In this regard, she appreciated the initiatives undertaken by the Sikkim Police.
Expressing confidence in the force, the President said the Sikkim Police would continue to uphold the dignity associated with the President’s Police Colour and discharge its duties with the spirit of “Nation First.”