Operation Parhar and Punjab’s Anti-Gangster Strategy

Launch of Operation Parhar

Operation Parhar and Punjab’s Anti-Gangster Strategy: Operation Parhar was launched by the Punjab Police as a large-scale, coordinated crackdown against organised gangster networks across the state. The operation reflects Punjab’s intensified policy of zero tolerance towards organised crime and criminal syndicates.

It is one of the most extensive simultaneous law enforcement actions undertaken in recent years. The objective is not only arrests, but systemic dismantling of criminal structures.

Scale of the Statewide Crackdown

Nearly 2,000 police teams comprising around 12,000 personnel were deployed simultaneously across Punjab. This makes Operation Parhar one of the largest coordinated police operations in the state’s history.

The raids were intelligence-driven and strategically targeted. The focus areas include violent crime, extortion rackets, illegal arms trade, and organised syndicate operations.

Static GK fact: Punjab shares international borders with Pakistan, making internal security and crime control strategically critical for national security.

Mapping of Gangster Networks

The Punjab Police have identified 60 major gangsters and nearly 1,200 associates operating across the state. This mapping reflects the structured intelligence architecture of the police system.

The operation targets not just criminals, but the entire criminal ecosystem. This includes financing channels, logistics networks, safe houses, weapons suppliers, and communication systems.

Static GK Tip: Modern policing strategies focus on ecosystem disruption rather than isolated arrests to prevent crime regeneration.

Leadership and Institutional Coordination

The operation was formally communicated by DGP Gaurav Yadav during a press briefing in Chandigarh. The leadership structure ensures centralised command with decentralised execution.

This reflects a model of intelligence-led policing, where data, surveillance, and field coordination function together. Such integrated frameworks increase operational efficiency and long-term crime control.

Citizen Participation Framework

A dedicated Anti-Gangster Helpline – 93946-93946 has been launched. This platform enables citizens to share real-time inputs on criminal activities.

The police have assured confidentiality of informants, strengthening public trust. Community participation transforms law enforcement into a societal security mechanism.

Static GK fact: Community policing models are globally recognised tools for improving intelligence flow and crime prevention.

Strategic Significance of Operation Parhar

Operation Parhar reflects a shift from reactive policing to preventive crime governance. It aims to break the continuity of criminal networks rather than addressing isolated incidents.

By integrating technology, intelligence mapping, mass deployment, and public cooperation, Punjab Police is building a sustainable security model. This strengthens institutional credibility and public confidence in governance.

Long-Term Law and Order Impact

The operation aligns with Punjab’s broader public safety reforms. It strengthens deterrence, surveillance capacity, and institutional response mechanisms.

Such operations contribute to urban safety, rural security, economic stability, and social order. Security becomes a foundational pillar for development and governance.

Static GK Tip: Internal security is a core responsibility of state governments under the Indian federal structure.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Operation Parhar and Punjab’s Anti-Gangster Strategy: