Securing people's freedom major duty of police'

MUMBAI: Infosys co-founder N.R. Narayana Murthy on Thursday said that the protection of freedom of faith, freedom of expression and freedom from fear is the most important duty of police at this ‘critical juncture’ in our history.

“India’s objective at this time is to accelerate economic growth so that the poorest of the poor have decent access to nutrition, education, health care, shelter and a better opportunity for their children,” Mr Murthy said.

It won’t be possible for citizens to work to create a prosperous India without enhancing the confidence and trust of Indians of every faith, Mr Murthy said, addressing police officers at Police Jeevan Gaurav Awards on Wednesday night.

A secular democracy, as defined by former US president Franklin Roosevelt, guarantees freedom of faith, freedom of expression, freedom from fear and freedom from want, he said.

“Therefore, at this critical juncture in the history of our country, protecting the first three freedoms — freedom of faith, freedom of expression and freedom from fear —for every citizen is the most important responsibility of the police force,” Mr Murthy said.