Thiruvananthpuram: The Kerala Government has approved the police's proposal to phase out certain outdated technical positions and allocate existing vacancies for the upcoming Cyber Investigation Wing.

In response to a request from the police, the government has agreed to abolish positions such as tailor, carpenter, lathe worker, painter, and blacksmith.

Additionally, they have indicated their intention to reserve the current vacancies in these technical roles exclusively for the cyber investigation wing. Recruitment for positions like tailor, carpenter, and lathe worker has been on hold for several years, as these roles no longer align with the department's objectives.

In 2020, the police permitted approximately 100 civil police officers to work in roles such as carpenters, cleaners, and blacksmiths on a deputation basis. This decision was primarily made to safeguard the interests of civil police officers rather than addressing departmental needs. According to the police proposal, the cyber wing will require 300 vacancies, which will be filled through redeployment and appointments to the surrendered positions.

"We have requested the elimination of technical positions that have become irrelevant in modern times. These roles were originally created to meet the force's needs in the past when tailors, blacksmiths, and lathe workers were essential. However, times have changed, and we no longer require these positions. We have outsourced these tasks, rendering these positions obsolete," explained a senior police officer.

The decision to establish a dedicated cyber investigation wing was prompted by a surge in cybercrimes. The government has already appointed Inspector General (IG) H Venkatesh to lead cyber operations, and Cyberdome has been incorporated into the cyber wing. The department has been actively expanding its capacity in the field of cybersecurity, with Cyberdome playing a significant role.

Cyberdome Kozhikode has been tasked with addressing cyber fraud, while Kochi Cyberdome has focused on cryptocurrency-related issues. The Thiruvananthapuram wing is dedicated to cyber security and monitoring activities on the dark web.

300 vacancies proposed

The government is expected to announce the establishment of the cyber investigation wing by the end of this month.

As per the police proposal, the cyber wing will require 300 new positions. /BI/