Issues related to policing in India- A case diary for the Indian police

Source: The post issues related to policing in India has been created, based on the article “A case diary for the Indian police” published in “The Hindu” on 13th January 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS paper2- Governance- Important aspects of governance

News: The article talks about a three-day conference in Jaipur for top-level police officers from across India, focusing on various issues related to policing in India.

What are the issues related to policing in India?

Low Public Trust: The Indian police are perceived negatively by the public, leading to a lack of trust and confidence in their capabilities.

Centre-State Conflict: There is tension between the central government and some state governments regarding the Indian Police Service (IPS). States view IPS officers as outsiders and prefer recruiting their own personnel.

Structural Imbalances: The police hierarchy is skewed, with IPS officers receiving most attention and opportunities, while lower ranks lack chances to demonstrate their capabilities. This structure contrasts with many countries where officers rise through the ranks based on merit and performance.

Political Influence: Policing in India is heavily influenced by politics, with officers often struggling to resist illegal demands from politicians, affecting their autonomy and operational independence.

Inadequate Training and Development: Lower-ranking officers lack sufficient training and development opportunities, hindering their ability to effectively serve and protect the community.

Way forward

To improve policing in India, a major restructuring is necessary, focusing on bridging the gap between higher and lower ranks and fostering empathy towards the common man. Educating lower ranks and shielding the police from political interference are crucial. This approach, mirroring global practices, can enhance the force’s reputation and efficiency.

Question for practice:

Discuss the key issues faced by the Indian police force and suggest ways forward for improvement.