Chennai, Sep 10 : Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Wednesday presided over the first-ever Tamil Nadu Police Day celebrations, held at the Rajarathinam Stadium in Egmore.

The landmark event marked a historic moment for the police force, officially honouring their contributions to public safety and community service.

The Chief Minister administered the Police Day pledge and later distributed prizes to the children of police personnel who excelled in competitions conducted by the Greater Chennai Police as part of the celebrations.

Tamil Nadu formally observed its inaugural Police Day on September 6 this year, following the government's announcement to commemorate the enactment of the Madras District Police Act of 1859, which laid the foundation of the modern policing system in the state.

The first Police Day was observed across various districts with a variety of programmes, including the administration of the pledge at police stations, floral tributes to martyrs, cultural events involving police families, and outreach activities aimed at strengthening ties between the police and the public.

In his remarks on the occasion, Greater Chennai Police Commissioner A. Arun expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for instituting the observance.

"Throughout the year, from New Year's Day to festivals and other special occasions, police personnel dedicate themselves to the people. It is only fitting that there is a day to honour their service," he said.

Arun also reaffirmed the department's commitment to realising the Chief Minister's vision of a "crime-free Tamil Nadu".

Director General of Police G. Venkataraman noted that even while touring Europe, Stalin enquired about the Police Day celebrations and kept his word to attend the event upon his return.

"There are days to honour mothers, doctors, nurses, and even the transgender community in Tamil Nadu. Yet, until now, there was no day to recognise the sacrifices of the police, who work tirelessly round the clock," he observed.

Venkataraman said that the introduction of Police Day filled this long-standing void and would inspire the force to serve with renewed dedication.

The celebrations concluded with cultural performances by police families and a renewed pledge by the force to uphold the safety, security, and trust of the people of Tamil Nadu.

/IANS