Pramesh S Jain
It’s like the fence itself is being raised and the field is being grazed: The police are involved in crimes; DG-IGP’s warning message!
Amid a growing number of incidents in which police personnel themselves are being booked in criminal cases across Karnataka,Director General and Inspector General of Police,Dr.MA Saleem has issued a strict warning to senior officers,directing them to enforce discipline and prevent misconduct within the ranks.
In a circular issued on Friday Mr.Saleem said that police involvement in criminal activities was tarnishing the image of the department.
He cautioned that any officer or staff member found engaged in illegal acts would face stringent disciplinary action.He also laid out a series of directives for unit heads to strengthen internal vigilance and accountability.
According to the circular,all unit officers must:
Maintain close supervision over police personnel under their command.
Build awareness among staff about ethical standards, legal duties,and the consequences of corruption and crime.
Conduct training and sensitisation programmes regularly.
Immediately report any information on misconduct, illegal activities,or criminal behaviour of officers or staff to Police Headquarters.
Uphold the department’s integrity and foster a culture of accountability.
Address factors that may affect morale or lead to ethical lapses.
Strictly enforce the existing Code of Conduct.
Ensure no loopholes in implementation that could allow misconduct.
Mr.Saleem has warned that failure to implement these instructions would be treated as gross negligence,and unit heads could face disciplinary proceedings.
He emphasised that the dignity,honour,and integrity of the police department were non-negotiable.
“Protecting the reputation of the department is the primary duty of every officer,”the circular stated,urging all units to maintain discipline and reinforce public trust.
Over 135 police personnel of various ranks,including 10 inspectors and 82 constabulary staff,have been suspended for their alleged involvement in offences ranging from robbery to corruption,from drug peddling to dereliction of duty and insubordination in this year.
This show lack of discipline and corrupt practices among the one of the most discipline force in the country, is on the rise,a senior police officer,said .
Despite repeated reminders and circulars issued in this regard,such incidents are on the rise .
