Guwahati, 6th March: Assam is taking steps to bolster the safety and security of tourists by introducing a dedicated “tourist police” force. This decision comes as the state experiences a significant uptick in visitor numbers following the Covid-19 pandemic last year. The state tourism department is gearing up to establish tourist police units, stations, and other essential infrastructure to ensure the well-being of travelers.
The introduction of the “tourist police” scheme was recently incorporated into the new Assam Tourism (Development and Registration) Bill, 2024, which was passed by the state assembly. This move aims to establish a robust framework for the tourism sector, mandating that every accommodation facility register with the tourism department, according to a senior official.
Several other states across India, including Andhra Pradesh, Delhi, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, and Uttar Pradesh, have already implemented tourist police.
While the implementation is still in its early stages in Assam, officials have assured that action will be taken promptly. The tourist police will conduct inspections at various tourist destinations to ensure a safe and secure environment for visitors.
The concept of a tourist police force was first introduced in the country in 2022, following directives from the Union Ministry of Tourism to all states and Union territories. This initiative involves collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) to establish standard operating procedures, design training programs, and recommend uniforms for tourist police officers.
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