The Future of Policing: Harnessing New Technologies with Special Reference to Police Commissionerate, Ludhiana, Punjab

Abstract

Adoption of next-generation technologies is radically revolutionizing local policing systems globally. The Police Commissionerate has over the years implemented the use of technological advancement and automation in its operations to increase efficiency, detect crimes, and strengthen its enforcement plans in India. This work aims at analysing the changing nature of technological advancement in the policing system in Ludhiana, an industrial city in Punjab, India, with inclusive discussions on the use of artificial intelligence, predictive policing, surveillance technology, biometrics, and data analysis tools in policing. This study aims at identifying the current state of technological advancement of the police force in Ludhiana using secondary data, reports, and case studies and, at the same time, exploring the possible future developments that the new technologies may offer. Furthermore, the paper considers what may be viewed as barriers or costs of such technologies, such as public acceptance, privacy issues, and infrastructure solutions. This work will help to enhance the current discussion on the process of professionalization of police, having focused particularly on the nature of change and innovation in police work.