Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has mandated the state police to implement strict actions against those who target women and girls on the internet. This directive comes as the state launches its campaign for cybersecurity awareness.
During the launch of the state-level cybersecurity awareness campaign, Chief Minister Majhi also announced the establishment of 20 new cyber police stations across Odisha. He highlighted that women and girls falling victim to blackmail and mental harassment online is a serious concern.
“I direct the Odisha Police to take strict action against those who are behind this. If strict and prompt action is not taken in such cases, action will be taken against the police officers concerned,” Majhi stated, emphasizing accountability.
Data from the National Crime Records Bureau indicates a rise in cybercrimes targeting women in Odisha. In 2023, the state recorded 761 such cases, including offenses like the sharing of explicit content, blackmail, and defamation, an increase from 542 cases in 2022.
The Chief Minister acknowledged that cybercrime poses a significant challenge nationwide and stressed that public awareness is the most effective defense against it. He announced that awareness campaigns would be conducted in all districts.
With approximately 82 crore internet users in India, representing 55% of the population, the internet has become an indispensable part of daily life. Majhi also noted that thousands of complaints filed through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and the helpline 1930 are being addressed promptly.
To bolster cybercrime response, the state will soon see 20 new cyber police stations become operational, alongside the modernization of the existing 14. This initiative will involve the appointment of 1,127 police personnel and 170 technical experts. Additionally, a state-level command center will be established under the Crime Branch to manage cybercrime cases more effectively.
To further spread awareness, the Chief Minister flagged off 16 vehicles that will travel across districts to educate the public about cybercrimes.