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Bharatpol: A Revolutionary Step in International Crime Investigation
Context:
Recently , Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Shri Amit Shah inaugurated the BHARATPOL portal at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), this initiative is a pivotal milestone in enhancing India’s capabilities in international investigations and crime control mechanisms.
About Bharatpol:
- Bharatpol is a digital portal developed by the CBI to facilitate seamless international cooperation for Indian law enforcement agencies. By integrating advanced technologies and frameworks, Bharatpol acts as a broadcast hub for real-time actions against transnational crimes through INTERPOL’s global network.
- This platform replaces traditional methods like letters, emails, and faxes, which often caused delays in investigations, thereby ensuring swift and efficient collaboration.
Key Features of Bharatpol:
- Real-Time Information Sharing
- Enables Indian law enforcement agencies to access real-time assistance from INTERPOL’s global network of 195 member nations.
- Accelera`tes processes like the issuance of Red Corner Notices and other critical alerts.
- Integration of Law Enforcement Agencies: Unifies central and state police forces into a single digital framework.
- Advanced Technological Capabilities
- Connect Module: Links Indian law enforcement with INTERPOL, ensuring secure and structured communication.
- INTERPOL Notices Module: Facilitates efficient drafting, issuance, and tracking of INTERPOL notices.
- Broadcast Module: Expedites requests for international assistance.
- Resources Module: Simplifies document exchange and training resource management.
- Access to INTERPOL Databases: Offers Indian agencies access to 19 types of INTERPOL databases, empowering them to analyse, prevent, and address complex crimes effectively.
Role of the CBI and INTERPOL Liaison Officers:
The CBI, as the National Central Bureau (NCB) for INTERPOL in India, plays a pivotal role in facilitating international cooperation on criminal cases.
- INTERPOL Liaison Officers (ILOs) and Unit Officers (UOs) will now use Bharatpol for real-time interactions, replacing outdated communication methods.
- This transition enables a more efficient exchange of intelligence and enhances coordination with INTERPOL’s global network.
Key Modules of Bharatpol:
- Connect Module:Provides secure communication for tracking criminals and transmitting INTERPOL notices.
- INTERPOL Notices Module:Enables efficient drafting and management of various color-coded INTERPOL notices.
- References Module:Acts as a comprehensive repository of resources and guidance documents for cross-border investigations.
- Broadcast Module:Facilitates real-time updates and requests for assistance from INTERPOL member nations.
- Resources Module:Simplifies access to templates, resources, and capacity-building tools for effective utilisation of international cooperation tools.
Why Was Bharatpol Developed?:
Bharatpol addresses the rising threats of transnational crimes, including:
- Cybercrime
- Financial fraud
- Online radicalisation
- Organised crime
- Drug trafficking
- Human trafficking
With the growing complexity of global crimes, Bharatpol was developed to provide real-time international assistance for tracking and prosecuting criminals effectively.
Impact on Law Enforcement:
- Enhanced Crime Control: Bharatpol will strengthen efforts to combat drug trafficking, arms smuggling, cybercrime, human trafficking, and cross-border terrorism.
- Trial in Absentia: New provisions in criminal laws allow for the prosecution of fugitives in absentia, simplifying extradition processes and ensuring fair judicial practices.
- Capacity Building: Comprehensive training programs will familiarise law enforcement with the effective utilisation of Bharatpol’s tools, including drafting and managing INTERPOL notices.
Significant Outcomes of Bharatpol:
- Bringing Criminals to Justice: Bharatpol ensures that fugitives fleeing India will face trial and punishment, regardless of their location.
- Enhanced Extradition Processes: Since 2021, India has extradited over 100 wanted criminals, including 26 in 2024, through INTERPOL channels.
- Technological Advancement: Bharatpol employs cutting-edge technology to analyse and prevent global crimes, empowering young officers to devise innovative crime prevention strategies.
