Pramesh S Jain
The Karnataka Police Headquarters has issued a directive to all field units across the state, instructing personnel to refrain from using force and to behave courteously with the public during fairs,festivals,and law-and-order duties.
The order comes following observations by the Karnataka State Human Rights Commission (KSHRC) in connection with a complaint related to an incident during a temple chariot festival in Doddaballapura in February 2025.
According to the complaint,police personnel allegedly assaulted roadside vendors,used abusive language,and damaged their goods while clearing shops during the Sri Venkataramana Swamy Brahmarathotsava.
The complainant sought action against the police officials involved.
An inquiry conducted by the Bengaluru Rural Police revealed that the road where the chariot procession was held was narrow and crowded,with nearly 25,000–30,000 people gathered.
Police had reportedly made repeated announcements asking vendors to vacate the roadside to ensure smooth movement of the chariot.
When some vendors failed to comply,shops were cleared to prevent obstruction.
The inquiry report stated that there was no evidence to substantiate allegations of assault,abuse,or destruction of property.
However,video footage submitted by the complainant showed that police used limited force in certain instances while clearing the road.
Taking note of this,the KSHRC observed that even minimal use of force in such situations is a matter of concern and could undermine public trust.
The Commission directed the Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG & IGP) to issue strict instructions to ensure that police personnel avoid unnecessary force and maintain proper conduct with the public.
Acting on these directions,the Additional Director General of Police (Grievances and Human Rights) has now instructed all Police Commissioners,Range Inspectors General,and Superintendents of Police, including Railway and KGF units,to comply strictly with the guidelines.
The police department has emphasized that any misconduct during public events will be viewed seriously, as it could affect the department’s credibility and amount to violation of human rights.
