Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Oct 25: Director general and inspector general of police (DG & IGP) M A Saleem has issued important guidelines to police personnel across the state, emphasizing how they should conduct themselves with dignity, respect, and courtesy while dealing with the public. The circular outlines detailed instructions aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and empathy in policing.
The circular states that police officers must maintain transparency in all official procedures and treat every visitor to the police station equally, without considering their background. They must listen to public grievances patiently and register complaints promptly as per the law, without unnecessary delay. While interacting with the public, officers should avoid using harsh or offensive language and must always communicate politely and respectfully.
Police personnel have been directed to refrain completely from making demands or accepting any illegal benefits, assistance, or favours from individuals or organizations. They must demonstrate moral conduct and uphold departmental ethics both during and after duty, setting an example for others. Station house diaries and case files should be maintained accurately and systematically, with transparency and accountability ensured at every stage of investigation. Officers have been reminded not to cause unnecessary hardship to citizens during inquiries or investigations.
Special care and sensitivity must be shown while dealing with victims, women, senior citizens, and children. Officers are expected to keep citizens informed about the status of their complaints and pending cases while maintaining discipline and punctuality in all official duties. The circular also emphasizes responsible use of body cameras and available technology to uphold fairness in police-public interactions.
Police officials have been instructed to fully cooperate with judicial and administrative authorities and to respect the privacy and dignity of individuals during searches, arrests, and interrogations. They must avoid misuse of power and act as models of good conduct. The circular encourages police personnel to engage actively in the community and organize public awareness programs to build trust through transparent, lawful, and compassionate policing.
If any attempt is made to influence or corrupt police operations, officers must immediately report such instances to their senior officials. In cases where a complaint falls outside a station’s jurisdiction, police should register a zero FIR and then transfer it to the appropriate jurisdictional police station, instead of asking the complainant to go elsewhere. The circular also clearly states that women should not be called to the police station after 6 pm for inquiry or statement recording.