Bengaluru City Police

Bengaluru City Police (BCP), also known as the Bangalore City Police, is the law enforcement agency responsible for Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. The BCP is under the administrative control of the Government of Karnataka, and is led by the city's Commissioner of Police, a senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer. As of 2025, the Commissioner of Police of Bengaluru City is Seemant Kumar Singh, IPS. The BCP oversees responsibilities such as foot patrols, traffic enforcement, emergency response, and public safety. Administratively, the force is organised into 11 law-and-order divisions and 4 traffic divisions, each headed by a Deputy Commissioner of Police. Each division is further subdivided into sub-divisions supervised by an Assistant Commissioner of Police. Police stations are led by Police Inspectors and are responsible for community policing, crime investigation, and local law enforcement. History Policing in Bengaluru has its origins in the administrative systems of the Kingdom of Mysore, where law enforcement responsibilities were carried out through local officials and traditional watch arrangements. Under British rule in the 19th century, organised police forces were developed, and following India's independence in 1947, policing in Bengaluru fell under the administration of the Government of Karnataka. As the city expanded, the Bengaluru City Police was formally established in 1963, with the first police force to be established in the State of Karnataka. The first Commissioner of Police was C. Chandy, who held the rank of Deputy Inspector General of Police. Over time, the force expanded in size and structure, with the creation of additional law-and-order and traffic divisions, police stations, and specialised wings dedicated to crime detection, traffic regulation, and public safety. Cyber Crime Units, Narcotics Control Wing, and Women and Child Safety Units were established to address emerging urban challenges, including increased traffic density, technology-enabled crime, and crimes against women and children. In the 21st century, the Bengaluru City Police increasingly adopted technology-driven policing methods, such as the Safe City Project, to better coordinate emergency responses. Organisational structure The Bengaluru City Police is headed by the Commissioner of Police, who holds the rank of Additional Director General of Police (ADGP). The Commissioner is assisted by Additional Commissioners of Police and Joint Commissioners of Police, who supervise and coordinate key functional domains such as law and order, crime, traffic, intelligence, and administration within the city police Commissionerate. The force operates through a combination of foot patrols, mobile patrols, traffic patrols, and armed mobile striking units. Administratively, the jurisdiction of Bengaluru City Police is divided into 11 law-and-order divisions and 4 traffic divisions, each supervised by a senior officer and further subdivided into sub-divisions. Sub-divisions consist of multiple police stations that function as the primary units for local policing and crime investigation. Police stations are managed by Police Inspectors (PI) and are staffed by Sub-Inspectors, Assistant Sub-Inspectors, Head Constables, and Constables, who are responsible for maintaining law and order, conducting investigations, and carrying out patrol duties within their respective jurisdictions. As part of its organisational framework, Bengaluru City Police comprises 116 law-and-order police stations, 53 traffic police stations, 8 women police stations, 9 CEN (Cyber, Economic and Narcotics Crime) police stations, and one Central Crime Branch (CCB). Administrative hierarchy Police stations by type Police zones and divisions The Bengaluru City Police is administratively structured into two territorial zones—East Zone and West Zone—to facilitate decentralised command and effective operational control. Each zone is headed by a senior police officer and is subdivided into multiple divisions responsible for law and order maintenance, crime prevention, and policing within defined geographical jurisdictions. The East Zone comprises the East, North East, South East, Electronic City, and Whitefield divisions, while the West Zone includes the Central, West, North, South, North West, and South West divisions. This zonal-divisional framework enables streamlined supervision, coordinated deployment of resources, and improved policing efficiency across the city. Specialized units The Bengaluru City Police maintains several specialized units to support law enforcement, investigation, intelligence gathering, emergency response, and public safety operations across the city. These units function alongside territorial police stations and are designed to address specific categories of crime, security requirements, and operational challenges. By providing focused expertise and dedicated resources, specialized units enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of policing in Bengaluru. Central Crime Branch (CCB) The Central Crime Branch (CCB) is a specialised investigative wing of the Bengaluru City Police that handles complex and serious criminal cases requiring specialised skills and coordination. The unit is responsible for investigating organised crimes, financial frauds, cyber-enabled offences, and other high-profile cases that extend beyond the jurisdictional capacity of individual police stations. The CCB supports local police stations by conducting in-depth investigations and coordinating inter-agency operations when required. Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO) Scene of Crime Officers (SOCO) form a specialised forensic support unit responsible for the scientific examination and documentation of crime scenes. These officers assist investigating teams by collecting physical evidence, documenting scenes through photography and measurements, and ensuring the preservation of forensic material. Their work strengthens investigations by supporting evidence-based policing and aiding prosecution processes. Drug Awareness Units Drug Awareness Units focus on addressing issues related to substance abuse and narcotics-related offences. These units engage in enforcement activities as well as public awareness programmes aimed at educating citizens about the harmful effects of drug abuse. The units contribute to crime prevention initiatives, particularly among students and vulnerable groups. Command Centre and Control Room The Command Centre and Control Room functions as the central coordination hub for city-wide policing and emergency response. It monitors real-time inputs from various operational units and surveillance systems, receives emergency calls, and facilitates the rapid deployment of police resources. The control room enables coordinated responses during emergencies, major public events, and disaster situations. CEN Police Stations CEN (Cyber, Economic and Narcotics Crime) Police Stations are specialised police stations established to investigate cyber crimes, economic offences, and narcotics-related cases. These stations are staffed with trained personnel who handle technology-driven crimes, financial fraud, and drug-related offences, improving investigative efficiency in specialised domains. City Crime Records Branch (CCRB) The City Crime Records Branch (CCRB) is responsible for the collection, compilation, and analysis of crime-related data within the Bengaluru City Police jurisdiction. The branch maintains crime records and statistics, and analyses crime patterns. Central Armed Reserve (CAR) The Central Armed Reserve (CAR) serves as a reserve force to support law-and-order duties, crowd control, and emergency deployments. The unit is mobilised during situations requiring additional manpower, such as public gatherings, protests, festivals, and emergencies, and provides armed support to maintain public order. Intelligence Unit The Intelligence Unit is responsible for gathering, analysing, and disseminating information related to internal security, crime prevention, and public order. The unit identifies potential threats, monitors criminal activities, and provides actionable intelligence to operational units, playing a key role in preventive policing. VVIP Security Unit The VVIP Security Unit provides security to dignitaries, visiting officials, and protected persons within the city. The unit plans and executes security arrangements for official events, public appearances, and movements of protected individuals, coordinating with other police units to ensure safety and public order. Women Police Stations Women Police Stations are specialised units established to address crimes involving women. These stations provide a supportive environment for women to report offences and seek assistance. They handle cases related to crimes against women and contribute to gender-sensitive policing and access to justice. Anti-Terrorist Cells Anti-Terrorist Cells focus on monitoring, preventing, and responding to activities related to terrorism and threats to internal security. These units work in coordination with intelligence agencies and other law enforcement bodies to assess risks, conduct surveillance, and implement preventive measures. K9 Unit The K9 Unit consists of trained police dogs and handlers who assist in various policing operations, including tracking suspects, detecting explosives or narcotics, and conducting search operations. The unit enhances operational capabilities in security and investigation-related duties. Mounted Patrol The Mounted Patrol unit uses horses for patrolling and crowd management in specific areas and during public events. Mounted patrols are employed for visibility, surveillance, and crowd control in open spaces, supporting law-and-order duties and preventive policing. Traffic management Traffic management in Bengaluru is administered by the Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP), which is responsible for traffic regulation, enforcement, and monitoring across the city. Traffic regulation includes the management of vehicular movement, traffic signals, one-way systems, parking control, and the implementation of restrictions during peak hours, public events, and emergencies. For administrative and operational purposes, the Bengaluru Traffic Police is organised into four traffic divisions—Traffic East Division, Traffic West Division, Traffic North Division, and Traffic South Division—each responsible for traffic management within its respective jurisdiction. These divisions collectively oversee 53 traffic police stations, which are further organised into 10 traffic sub-divisions, enabling decentralised and effective traffic enforcement, monitoring, and response at the local level. Traffic enforcement and monitoring are carried out through a combination of field personnel and technology-based systems. The city uses an Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) equipped with surveillance infrastructure, including Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras installed at major junctions to detect violations such as red light jumping and other offences, and integrated CCTV coverage of key intersections and corridors for real-time observation and control. Adaptive Traffic Signal Control (ATCS) systems are also deployed at major junctions to dynamically adjust signal timings based on real-time traffic conditions, optimising traffic flow and reducing congestion. The Bengaluru Traffic Police also operates the ASTrAM (Actionable Insights for Sustainable Traffic Management) mobile application, which provides real-time traffic updates, congestion information, road closures, and public advisories. These systems support centralised traffic operations and automated enforcement to improve compliance and overall traffic efficiency. Technology and modernization The Bengaluru City Police has progressively adopted technology-driven policing methods to enhance operational efficiency, public safety, crime prevention, and emergency response across the city. With the rapid growth of Bengaluru as a metropolitan and technological hub, the police force has integrated modern surveillance systems, digital platforms, and data-driven tools to support law enforcement and traffic management activities. A major step in the modernisation of policing in Bengaluru was the implementation of the Safe City Project, launched as a city-wide initiative aimed at improving public safety through the use of advanced surveillance and monitoring infrastructure. Under this project, a large network of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras has been deployed across key public locations, arterial roads, junctions, and sensitive areas. These cameras assist in real-time monitoring, crime detection, post-incident investigation, and deterrence of criminal activity. The surveillance infrastructure is supported by a centralised Command Centre and Control Room, which functions as the operational nerve centre for monitoring camera feeds, coordinating police responses, and managing emergency situations. The command centre integrates inputs from multiple systems, enabling coordinated decision-making during emergencies, major public events, and law-and-order situations. As part of its technological initiatives, Bengaluru City Police has implemented an Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS), which uses automated enforcement and monitoring tools to regulate traffic movement and detect violations. This system includes the deployment of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras at major junctions and corridors to identify offences such as red-light violations and other traffic-related violations. The system supports data-driven traffic enforcement and contributes to improved compliance and road safety. The city has also adopted Adaptive Traffic Signal Control (ATCS) systems at selected junctions, which dynamically adjust signal timings based on real-time traffic flow. By optimising signal cycles according to congestion levels, ATCS aims to reduce traffic delays, improve vehicle movement, and enhance overall traffic efficiency. Emergency response in Bengaluru is supported through the 112 emergency response system, which provides a single, unified helpline for police assistance. The system enables rapid call handling, location tracking, and dispatch of nearest available police resources. Integration with command and control systems allows for faster response times and coordinated action during emergencies. In addition to emergency response systems, Bengaluru City Police has introduced digital platforms and mobile applications to improve public engagement and service delivery. These applications provide citizens with access to police services, real-time updates, and information related to traffic conditions and public advisories. Technology-enabled public interfaces support transparency, accessibility, and improved interaction between the police and citizens. Video analytics and data analysis tools are increasingly used to support crime prevention and investigation. These technologies assist in identifying patterns, tracking suspects, analysing incidents, and supporting evidence-based policing. By leveraging data and analytics, the police force aims to enhance situational awareness and operational effectiveness. Through continuous investment in modern surveillance systems, emergency response infrastructure, digital platforms, and data-driven tools, the Bengaluru City Police has strengthened its technological capabilities. These initiatives reflect an ongoing effort to modernise policing practices and respond effectively to the evolving security and public safety needs of a rapidly growing urban environment. Emergency services The Bengaluru City Police provides emergency and public safety services through integrated helplines, digital platforms, and field response units. These services operate round the clock and address law enforcement, traffic management, cyber crime, and citizen safety within the city. Emergency response is coordinated through the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) 112, a single national helpline for police, fire, and ambulance services. The service is accessible from all mobile and landline networks and supports voice calls, SMS, and mobile application alerts. Location-based technology is used to facilitate the rapid dispatch of emergency response units for incidents such as crimes, road accidents, medical emergencies, and fire incidents. Women's safety services are provided through Safety Island, an initiative implemented under the city's Safe City Project. Bengaluru has 50 Safety Islands installed at selected public locations. Each Safety Island is a blue, telephone booth–style kiosk equipped with an SOS button that enables direct, hands-free communication with the police command and control centre. The kiosks are fitted with surveillance cameras and two-way audio systems, allowing real-time monitoring and interaction. The service is intended to provide immediate police assistance to persons in distress, particularly women, in identified high-risk areas, and is accessible through the 112 emergency system and the Karnataka State Police mobile application. The Karnataka State Police Mobile Application (KSP App) serves as a digital interface for emergency and citizen services. The application provides SOS alerts linked to 112, access to Safety Island services, online complaint and petition submission, reporting of lost documents, information on nearby police stations, and complaint status tracking. The application is available on Android and iOS platforms. Cyber crime and online financial fraud are addressed through the 1930 helpline, a national service for reporting cyber offences and financial fraud. The helpline is used to report incidents such as UPI fraud, credit and debit card fraud, online scams, and unauthorised electronic transactions. The service operates 24 hours a day, and complaints may also be registered through the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. Early reporting enables preventive action and facilitates possible recovery of funds. PARIHAR is an integrated initiative under the Bengaluru Safe City programme that provides coordinated support and protection to women, senior citizens, and children through dedicated helplines. It includes Vanitha Sahayavani (1091) for women's safety and counselling, Elders Helpline (1090) for assistance, legal advice, and protection of senior citizens, and the Child Helpline (1098), a free emergency service operated by CHILDLINE India Foundation for the rescue, rehabilitation, and care of children in distress. The Neravu project, initiated by the Bengaluru City Police under the Nirbhaya Scheme and the Safe City Project, involved the installation of 60 portable emergency cabins across Bengaluru. These cabins function as assistance booths primarily for women in distress and are also accessible to the general public during emergencies. Traffic-related emergencies and road accidents are handled through the 112 emergency response system in coordination with traffic police units. These services include accident response, traffic regulation, congestion management, and coordination with ambulance and medical services. These services form part of the Bengaluru City Police's emergency response framework for addressing public safety and law enforcement needs within the city. Crime prevention and public safety The Bengaluru City Police undertakes a range of crime prevention and public safety measures aimed at maintaining public order and reducing crime. Preventive policing includes regular beat and patrol duties, area domination exercises, and the deployment of check posts in vulnerable locations. Community policing initiatives focus on public engagement, awareness programmes, and cooperation with residents’ associations and institutions. Notable initiatives include Mane Manage Police, which promotes direct police–community interaction at the neighbourhood level, and Friends of Police, a volunteer-based programme that supports preventive policing and public safety efforts. In addition to routine crime prevention measures, the Bengaluru City Police undertakes focused public safety campaigns. During New Year celebrations, a city-wide public safety campaign is implemented to promote responsible celebration and prevent incidents related to public disorder, traffic violations, and safety risks. These measures include public awareness initiatives and enhanced policing arrangements, with the deployment of approximately 20,000 police personnel and comprehensive bandobast at prominent locations and high-footfall areas. The current month's campaign is focused on road safety, with emphasis on traffic discipline, accident prevention, and safer road user behaviour. The initiative includes targeted enforcement, public awareness activities, and outreach programmes across the city. Awards and recognition In 2016–17, the Bengaluru City Police received the Innovative Use of GIS Technology award for its use of social media and the Namma-100 Command Center initiative, and the Innovative Use of Mobile Technology award for its e-Lost & Found Report applications. In 2025, the Bengaluru City Police were recognised with the BluGreen Awards-2025 Certificate of Recognition under the Solid Waste sector for their contribution to climate action and environmental sustainability in Bengaluru. During the 217th Republic Day Flower Show (2025), organised by the Department of Horticulture at Lalbagh, the Bengaluru City Police participated in the competition for gardens of State Government institutions and won the third prize. Similarly, at the 218th Independence Day Flower Show (2025), organised by the Department of Horticulture, Lalbagh, the institution competed on the theme of Veerarani Kittur Chennamma and Krantiveer Sangolli Rayanna and again secured the third prize in the State Government institutions gardens competition. Leadership The Bengaluru City Police is headed by the Commissioner of Police, who is the chief executive and administrative authority of the city police Commissionerate. The Commissioner of Police is an officer of the Indian Police Service (IPS) and is responsible for overall supervision, policy implementation, law enforcement, crime prevention, traffic management, and public safety within the jurisdiction of Bengaluru City. Since the formal establishment of the Bengaluru City Police in 1963, the organisation has been led by several Commissioners of Police who have contributed to the development, modernisation, and expansion of policing in the city. Over the years, the leadership has evolved in response to the city's rapid urban growth, increasing population, technological advancements, and emerging law-and-order challenges. Each Commissioner has played a role in strengthening administrative structures, operational efficiency, and public-oriented policing initiatives. List of Commissioners of Police The Safe City Project was launched to improve emergency response and public safety across Bengaluru. Emergency response services such as Namma 112 enable police to provide rapid assistance in critical situations. Safety Islands have been installed across Bengaluru to provide immediate police assistance through SOS-enabled kiosks under the Safe City Project. Several citizens have reached out for help using Safe Connect services available through the Karnataka State Police mobile application. Artificial intelligence tools and CCTV-based analytics were used by Bengaluru City Police for crowd control and public safety during New Year celebrations under the Safe City framework. Safety Island installations have received significant citizen response, with certain locations recording higher SOS alert usage. The Safe City Project helped police trace and reunite missing children in minutes under the Bengaluru Safe City Project. Technology-driven policing helped Bengaluru police reunite missing children with families in record time. The Safe City Project has also attracted international interest, with officials from Dubai Police visiting Bengaluru to study Safe City technologies and public safety infrastructure. References