Amit Shah launches 'Bharatpol', new digital frontier for Indian law enforcement with Interpol cooperation

New Delhi: On Tuesday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah unveiled the 'Bharatpol' portal, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing the efficiency of international assistance for law enforcement agencies. Emphasizing the need for Indian investigative bodies to adopt modern technology, Shah characterized the portal as 'a global interface to curb borderless crimes.'

The Significance of Bharatpol

During the launch event at Bharat Mandapam, Shah highlighted the portal's real-time interface as its most crucial feature. Developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Bharatpol will enable both central and state agencies to seamlessly connect with Interpol, thereby expediting their investigations.

Launched the #BHARATPOL portal today, developed by the CBI. The new global data-sharing platform among agencies will create a milestone in pursuing PM Shri @narendramodi Ji's vision to curb borderless crimes through global cooperation and help us bring back fugitives from abroad.… pic.twitter.com/q4TOTlP1lX

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) January 7, 2025

"It is time that we use modern technology and techniques to nab and bring to justice the fugitives who absconded from India after committing a crime," Shah stated. He further noted that Bharatpol represents a proactive step towards addressing global challenges and modernizing internal systems.

Enhancing Investigative Capabilities

The Bharatpol portal is designed to facilitate information sharing among central and state investigative agencies, allowing them to access data from Interpol's 195 member nations. Shah pointed out that recent criminal law reforms introduced by the Modi government will improve the conduct of trials against fugitives. He urged the CBI to take charge of training state agencies on utilizing Bharatpol effectively and understanding new criminal laws.

Streamlining International Cooperation

As India's National Central Bureau (NCB) for Interpol, the CBI manages international cooperation in criminal matters. Traditionally, communication between the CBI and other law enforcement agencies relied on outdated methods like letters and emails, which often delayed critical processes. With increasing transnational crimes such as cybercrime and human trafficking, there is an urgent need for more efficient international collaboration.

The Bharatpol portal aims to streamline requests for international assistance through Interpol, including issuing Red Notices and other alerts. This innovative tool empowers field-level police officers, providing them with enhanced capabilities to tackle complex crimes and security challenges.

Key Features of Bharatpol

• Real-Time Information Sharing: Facilitates rapid communication between Indian law enforcement and global agencies.
• Centralized Platform: Offers a unified system for processing international criminal investigation requests.
• Streamlined Communication: Replaces traditional methods with faster digital solutions.
• Transnational Crime Addressing: Aids in combating various forms of organized crime effectively.
• Enhanced Collaboration: Promotes cooperation among different law enforcement bodies.
• Faster Response Times: Reduces processing times for international assistance requests.
• Empowerment of Officers: Equips police officers with tools necessary to combat crime efficiently.

By launching Bharatpol, India aims to strengthen its law enforcement capabilities and improve coordination in tackling transnational crime.