Bridging Trust with Tech

An AI-powered initiative in Maharashtra is transforming how citizens connect with police — making accessibility, accountability, and trust the new policing code

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In recent years, law enforcement agencies across the globe have increasingly sought to integrate technological innovations into their operations to enhance efficiency, transparency, and community engagement. A notable example of this trend can be found in Washim, Maharashtra, where a young police officer, Navdeep Aggarwal, has pioneered a transformative community policing initiative leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Known as the “Direct Dialogue with ASP” program. This initiative exemplifies the fusion of technology with human-centred policing, aiming to strengthen trust between citizens and law enforcement, improve responsiveness, and foster a safer community environment.

Washim, like many districts in India, faces the challenge of ensuring effective law enforcement while maintaining open channels of communication with citizens. Traditional policing methods, although functional, often limit real-time interaction between the public and senior police officials. Citizens may encounter difficulties in registering complaints, obtaining clarifications, or providing feedback on police actions. Recognising these challenges, a model was envisioned in which direct communication between citizens and senior police officers becomes seamless, immediate, and empathetic—thereby addressing traditional gaps in accessibility and transparency. The integration of AI technologies into policing operations represents a strategic solution, combining automation, data analytics, and digital communication tools to address these issues.