CBI Launches ‘BHARATPOL’ Portal for Seamless International Criminal Investigations
Union Home Minister Amit Shah Unveils CBI's BHARATPOL for Real-Time Access to Criminal Records and International Coordination
CBI’s Revolutionary ‘BHARATPOL’ Portal Launched to Enhance International Crime Investigations
In a significant boost to India’s law enforcement framework, Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) new portal, BHARATPOL, in a formal event held in Delhi on Tuesday. This transformative platform, accessible via the official CBI website, promises to revolutionize how law enforcement agencies across the country handle criminal investigations involving international assistance.
Streamlining International Cooperation through Interpol
The BHARATPOL portal is designed to streamline requests for international police assistance, including issuing red notices and other color-coded alerts through Interpol. According to a statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the platform allows state police forces and central agencies to efficiently submit requests, coordinate responses, and access real-time information critical to criminal probes.
“Bharatpol will significantly enhance the capabilities of Indian law enforcement agencies by enabling seamless information sharing and faster access to international police support,” the statement said.
Addressing the Growing Threat of Transnational Crimes
The launch of BHARATPOL comes in response to the increasing prevalence of transnational crimes such as cybercrime, human trafficking, drug smuggling, organized crime, financial fraud, and online radicalization. The platform aims to bridge gaps in global coordination and expedite the resolution of complex criminal cases.
“The growing footprint of cyber and financial crimes requires rapid and reliable international collaboration. Bharatpol will be instrumental in ensuring timely assistance and reducing procedural delays,” the statement added.
A Solution to Communication Delays
Previously, coordination between CBI, state police, and Union Territories relied heavily on traditional communication methods like letters, emails, and faxes, often leading to delays. The development of BHARATPOL was spearheaded by CBI Director Praveen Sood, following the realization that faster, centralized digital communication was essential.
“This portal addresses the issue of prolonged pendency in international assistance requests by bringing all stakeholders onto a unified platform,” said an unnamed senior officer involved in the project.
At present, INTERPOL Liaison Officers (ILOs) coordinate with Unit Officers (UOs) such as Superintendents of Police and Commissioners of Police. BHARATPOL will automate and streamline these communications, making real-time tracking of requests possible.
The home ministry emphasized that BHARATPOL will empower field-level officers, boosting their efficiency in managing cross-border crime and national security threats. Faster access to global resources will strengthen India’s ability to combat evolving criminal networks.
