A member of the Karnataka Police Grievance Bureau suggests badges for police personnel

The proposed system would recognize their long service, strengthen their sense of responsibility and ensure that experienced personnel are given due respect within the department and the company. Representative file image. | Photo credit: HS Manjunath

A member of the Karnataka State Police Grievance Board has urged the state government to introduce special insignia and badges on police uniforms to recognize the seniority of personnel based on their years of service, irrespective of promotion.

In a letter dated November 5 to Home, IT-BT and e-Governance Minister Priyank Kharge, Karnataka State Police Grievance Bureau Member Mohan Kumar Danappa suggested introducing three categories of seniority for police personnel, from constables to non-IPS officers.

According to his proposal, employees who complete five years of service should be designated as “Senior”, those who complete 10 years as “Super Senior” and those who complete 15 years as “Senior”. He suggested that distinct insignia corresponding to these designations be displayed on the right side of the chest above the nameplate.

Mr. Danappa pointed out that although police personnel generally become eligible for promotion after five years of service, promotions largely depend on the availability of vacancies. As a result, many experienced workers remain in the same position for years without formal recognition of their seniority and experience.

He said the proposed system will recognize their long service, strengthen their sense of responsibility and ensure that experienced personnel are given due respect within the department and society.

Referring to the practice of giving black collar patches to IPS officers after 10 years of service, he said similar arrangements were also followed in some state police forces and central armed police forces.

He also mentioned the state government’s recent initiatives to replace British-era police caps and introduce lanyards instead of whistle chains, saying that recognition of seniority through a uniform badge would be another major reform to boost the morale of police personnel.

If implemented, Karnataka could become the first state in the country to introduce a structured seniority-based designation system and uniform badges for police personnel, he said.

Mr. Danappa asked the Home Minister to examine the proposal and issue necessary instructions to the relevant authorities for its implementation.

Published – 07 Nov 2026 17:00 IST