Looking at the illegal, extortion, corruption cases where the Mumbai policemen – including the top cops – are involved, I would first suggest that our Police Commissioner should take this issue seriously to identify these cops and punish them as per the law. The policemen are supposed to be the saviours of the people and help them in the need of difficulties and be looked upon as “friends of the people”. However, today the scenario is totally reverse. People fear going to the police even to lodge a simple compliant of theft, fearing that they, in turn will be reprimanded, framed and bribe will be demanded to settle the case. Police stations amongst themselves fight over jurisdictions and take days to file an FIR even in a severe case of extortion or sexual assault. Hence, it’s high time for the police top brass to come heavily on the “black-sheeps” in the police force. Mere transfers or suspensions will not work. Much more needs to be done for these “criminal-cops” to learn a severe lesson. The nexus between the cops and criminals must be broken with an iron arm.
Whilst on how to deal with the bad-cops in the force, I would also like to suggest that today, the plight of our policemen needs to be considered on top priority by the state government. They are under severe stress and above all their working conditions are pathetic with even basic amenities and necessities not available to many.
Considering the present day situation, my suggestion is that the present day policemen and security persons be given better salaries, extra benefits, flexible but reasonable period of working hours, and a congenial working atmosphere. Above all, provide them with leave as applicable and enough time to spend with their family members. Many a time, a cop reaches home so late at night only to find his wife and children in bed and a cold dinner awaiting him.
With all round violence and terrorism with additional and risky responsibilities like providing security to VVIPs which require policemen to be present and vigilant for entire 24 hours, they -the cops- in turn need to be provided with better security and basic amenities during long duty hours. On the job, 24 hours a day, cops too succumb to the vicious circle of stress and depression. The recent killing of a senior inspector by his junior, showed utter depression and severely disturbed mindset of the killer.
So many committees and sub-committees were appointed to inquire into the livelihood of our policemen and many suggestions were made to improve their plight. But our government has not thought it fit to consider their suggestions. No wonder very low salary leads to “corruption and haftas”, to make both ends meet and to lead a normal life!! It is high time we prevent our elected representatives from interfering in the work of the police. The police must be given a free hand to maintain law and order in the society. They must be allowed to perform their jobs which they are (under) paid for!
Krishna Kumar
