In the spotlight recently was the 58th All India Conference of Police Chiefs attended by the Prime Minister in Jaipur. The three-day event delved into pressing issues like cybercrime, counter-terrorism, and prison reforms. The Prime Minister’s address highlighted a paradigm shift in criminal justice, emphasizing citizen rights and dignity. Trust-building measures, including positive social media outreach and community engagement through sports events, were advocated. However, the conference also shed light on challenges such as custodial deaths, excessive use of force, corruption, and extrajudicial killings. Recommendations for police reforms, ranging from the establishment of Police Complaint Authorities to the Model Police Act, were discussed as crucial steps toward a modern, accountable, and citizen-centric police force.
What’s the Buzz about the 58th All India Police Conference?
Recently, the Prime Minister of India attended the 58th All India Conference of Police Chiefs in Jaipur, Rajasthan. This three-day conference brought together top police officials, discussing a range of issues from cybercrime to prison reforms. One of the main topics on the agenda was the implementation of new criminal laws.
Key Takeaways from the Prime Minister’s Speech:
- Changing the Game in Criminal Justice:
The PM stressed a shift towards a justice system that prioritizes citizen dignity and rights. He emphasized moving away from punishment-focused measures to more data-driven approaches. Ensuring women and girls are aware of their rights under the new laws was also highlighted. - Improving the Image of the Police:
The PM urged for a positive perception of the police, suggesting the use of social media to spread positive information and messages. He also proposed using social media for disaster alerts and relief efforts. - Building Connections Between Citizens and Police:
To strengthen the bond between citizens and the police force, the PM suggested organizing sports events and encouraging government officials to stay in border villages for better connections with the local community. - Modernizing the Police Force:
The PM encouraged the Indian police to evolve into a modern, world-class force aligned with India’s rising global profile. The goal is to contribute to the vision of a developed India by 2047.
Issues Plaguing Police Forces:
- Custodial Deaths:
Deaths that occur while a person is in police custody have seen a rise. Despite a decline in previous years, the numbers spiked in 2021-22. - Excessive Use of Force:
Instances of the police using excessive force, leading to injuries and fatalities, have been reported. Lack of proper training and oversight contributes to such misuse. - Corruption within the Force:
Corruption, including bribery and misconduct, undermines public trust. Some laws, like those related to prohibition, create opportunities for corruption within the police force. - Trust Issues:
There’s a significant trust deficit between the police and the community, affecting cooperation and information sharing. High-profile cases of police misconduct contribute to public skepticism. - Extrajudicial Killings:
Instances of extrajudicial killings, commonly known as ‘encounters,’ have raised concerns. There is no legal provision for such killings, and their frequency has increased.
Recommendations for Police Reforms:
- Police Complaint Authority:
The Supreme Court directed the establishment of Police Complaint Authorities in all states to investigate misconduct by police officers. Separation of investigation and law and order functions was also recommended. - National Police Commission Recommendations:
Recommendations from the National Police Commission highlighted the need for functional autonomy and accountability. - Shri Ribero Committee:
The Ribero Committee, formed in 1998, endorsed major recommendations of the National Police Commission. - Malimath Committee:
The Malimath Committee, set up in 2000, made 158 recommendations, including the establishment of a central law enforcement agency. - Model Police Act:
According to the Model Police Act of 2006, each state must establish an authority with members from various backgrounds to focus on the functional autonomy of the police agency, professionalism, and accountability.