Open House: How can integrity be ensured in the police force?

Police conduct under scrutiny

Instances of indecent behaviour by police personnel towards women occasionally come to light, sparking public outrage and prompting disciplinary action against those involved. The recent incident in Phillaur, where a Station House Officer (SHO) allegedly misbehaved with a woman complainant, is particularly shocking. The case was reportedly registered only after the intervention of social activists — a fact that raises serious questions about police sensitivity and accountability. Though similar incidents have surfaced earlier, this one casts a deep shadow over the credibility of the law-enforcing machinery, as an audio clip of the SHO’s alleged indecent remarks went viral on social media. The very force entrusted with ensuring the safety and dignity of citizens, particularly women, must remain beyond reproach. Taking cognisance of the matter, the Punjab State Women Commission has ordered an inquiry into the allegations of harassment levelled by the mother of a minor rape victim. Despite the growing presence of women in the police force, the prevailing male-dominated structure still reflects outdated attitudes that demand urgent transformation. The integrity and public trust in the police stand severely shaken. It is, therefore, imperative to conduct periodic sensitisation and orientation programmes for all police personnel, especially those handling gender-related or sensitive cases, to uphold women’s dignity at every stage of investigation. Any instance of negligence, harassment, or misconduct by an official on duty must invite strict and exemplary action to reinforce discipline, accountability, and humane conduct. For effective and just policing, brute force must give way to professionalism, empathy and scientific methods of investigation. There can be absolutely no justification for the exploitation or humiliation of anyone — even under the most challenging circumstances.

Nirmaljit Singh Chatrath

Zero tolerance for misconduct

The image of any state government largely depends upon the quality of performance by the state police, especially in respect of their dealings with women and downtrodden people. In recent times, the image of the police in such cases has risen to a level where remedial measures are urgently required to prevent further downfall. The government must strictly enforce the Supreme Court of India’s guidelines with regard to dealing with women suspects and culprits at all levels of police and judicial process. The said guidelines, which are comprehensive and forceful, must be implemented in toto in all police proceedings without deviation and with zero tolerance against violations. Police personnel found guilty must be punished speedily to send a strong message to others. Further, women-specific police stations should be established to handle crimes where women are in majority, ensuring sensitivity and security in every case.

Jagdish Chander

Need for gender sensitivity

Police stations and their posted staff have a primary duty to provide justice on the spot, seek amicable settlements at the police station level, maintain law and order, adopt every measure to ensure peace in their area, safeguard residents’ interests, and protect citizens’ rights. The residents have full faith in the functioning of the police because they act firmly against anti-social elements and strive to maintain harmony. However, the recent incident of misconduct towards a woman — whom the police officer was supposed to protect — is extremely unfortunate and deserves strong condemnation. It has raised public concern regarding women’s safety and the credibility of police protection. The Punjab Home Ministry should direct senior officers in different districts to ensure that whenever a woman approaches a police station for protection or to file an FIR, female police constables or officers are present to safeguard her interests. Although such incidents rarely occur, this particular episode of misconduct has certainly sent shockwaves among residents.

Rajat Kumar Mohindru

Monitor the conduct of police officers

It is truly unfortunate and deeply disturbing to hear the news of an SHO, a person entrusted with maintaining law and order, being accused of molesting a minor. Incidents like these completely shatter people’s trust in those who are meant to protect them. When the protectors themselves become the perpetrators, it leaves citizens feeling unsafe and vulnerable. The government must take such cases very seriously and ensure that justice is served swiftly and transparently. There should be strict accountability mechanisms to monitor the conduct of police officers on a regular basis.

Anita Sharma

Protecting citizens should be top priority

Regular psychological evaluations, background checks and ethics training should be made mandatory to ensure that only those with integrity serve in such crucial positions. A strong system of internal oversight will not only prevent misuse of power but also help restore people’s faith in law enforcement. Protecting citizens should always remain the top priority of the police force. But, unfortunately, such incidents are only creating panic amongst people, which is really not acceptable.

Jasmine Kaur

Urgent need for accountability

Imagine a troubled person, already distressed, goes to the police seeking safety and justice. Instead of receiving help, they are mistreated and in the worst cases, even molested by the very officers meant to protect them. Such an incident is not only heart-breaking but also a complete betrayal of trust and duty. It highlights the deep flaws in the system and the urgent need for accountability. No one should ever fear those entrusted with their protection. It is unfair, unjust, and unacceptable. Governments must take strong action to address such abuses by enforcing strict laws, ensuring transparent investigations, and creating independent oversight bodies.

Kanu Verma

Police must uphold women's safety

If men in khaki can't protect women, who will the people turn to? While many upright officers, including women officers, have played a valiant role in ensuring women's safety, the conduct of a few black sheep—especially in sensitive cases involving minors—brings disrepute to the entire department. Stringent monitoring, drives, and reviews should be implemented within the forces to ensure that such officials are rooted out and do not jeopardise justice in future cases.

Shashank Ahuja

POCSO Act needs better enforcement

Recent observations by key government functionaries and directives to police officers highlight the growing concerns about the implementation of the POCSO Act. Despite numerous awareness drives, the protection of little girls remains highly questionable. While citizens rely on the police to rein in criminal elements in society, what happens when officials in uniform themselves resort to such misdeeds? A stern example must be set of such officers to ensure that such incidents are not repeated. The safety of young girls is fundamental to building a free and happy society.

Happy Singh

Police accountability crucial

The rise in crimes against women worldwide is alarming, and the growing statistics on child trafficking and sexual assaults against minors are deeply concerning. Following the Nirbhaya case, diligent activism led to stronger laws aimed at protecting women, but poor implementation and delayed justice continue to be major issues. The first responsibility for prompt action on heinous crimes lies with the officials in police stations. If they delay or question the experiences of victims, there will be no hope left for women. It is essential that police stations are staffed with sensitive officials who respond to victims of sexual crimes with empathy and urgency.

Tanpreet Kaur