Bengaluru: The Canteen Stores Department (CSD) type stores available for defence personnel will soon be made available to state police as well. These stores will provide quality products of daily use at prices less than market rates for policemen, said Home minister Ramalinga Reddy.

Speaking to media, minister Reddy said, the opposition parties claim on deteriorating law and order situation in the state, which is not true. “During the previous opposition regime between May 2008 and April 2013, a total of 1, 13,913 crimes of varied types were reported compared to 1, 12,213 cases during the present congress government,” said Reddy indicating a marginal decline.

Departmental staff has been instructed to take strict action against financiers involved in extorting huge interest from borrowers, chain –snatchers, drug peddlers and others involved in illegal activities.

Staff has been advised to follow election commission guidelines and deal with a firm hand against men operating gambling dens, hukka bars and activities beyond the purview of the law, stated minister Reddy.

Orders have been issued to hasten the process in POCSO cases by framing charges against those booked within a year, followed by subsequent action against the guilty. Officials have also been instructed to deal firmly against skill and video game operators, he said.

Policemen have been asked to keep a tight vigil on women institutions to ensure the security of college going girls in the city. Around 14 police outposts have been started in the vicinity of colleges for the purpose, minister claimed.