DD-IGP MA Saleem says a well-dressed officer commands respect in society and reflects discipline and professionalism. | Photo credit: K. MURALI KUMAR
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To improve the image of the police department, the Karnataka police chief instructed the staff to “maintain a neat appearance and proper uniform standards”. This is one of the 18-point directions he gave to the rank and file.
In a circular issued earlier this week, Director General and Inspector General of Police MA Saleem said that “a well-dressed officer commands respect in society and reflects discipline and professionalism”, urging the rank and file to take pride in their appearance.
In the 18-point circular, Mr Saleem emphasized on “creating a better perception and demonstrating transparency, accountability and civility in service”.
Not power, but service
Speaking to The Hindu, Mr. Saleem said, “Police should not be seen as a ‘force’ but as a ‘service’. Every officer on duty should be disciplined, courteous and transparent in the discharge of his duties,” he said, adding that the guidelines are also for personnel performing their duties in mufti (plainclothes).
“Police personnel should treat people visiting the station with courtesy regardless of their status and rectify their problem promptly. The police should have high moral standards even off duty,” Mr Saleem said.
Treatment of women
The circular stated, among other things, that women and children visiting the stations should be treated with respect and care, and that in case of enquiries, officials should refrain from summoning the women to the station, but should conduct inquiries at their residence in the presence of a policewoman. Accused women should not at any cost be detained in the station for more than 18 hours and if detained should be transferred to a government home for women.
The state police chief also reminded police personnel to wear body cameras for reasons of transparency and accountability. The circular addressed the issue of the police often turning away the public saying that the complaint lies outside their jurisdiction and said that in such cases a zero FIR should be lodged at the station before being referred to the concerned.
Published – 25 Oct 2025 21:17 IST
