Proposal for Appointment of Mental Health Professionals for Karnataka Police

In an effort to improve police performance and improve the living conditions of personnel, a proposal has been submitted to the Karnataka Police Department to appoint professional psychiatric social workers across police units to address the growing mental health needs of police personnel.

In a communication to the state police leadership, Mohan Kumar Danappa, member of the Karnataka State Police Complaints Bureau, highlighted the need for dedicated mental health services within the police force. The letter states that while the department pays considerable attention to the physical health of staff, there remains a shortage of qualified professional resources to provide psychological and mental health support.

The proposal draws attention to findings and observations from mental health institutes, including the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), as well as other research organizations, which highlight the growing importance of psychological well-being among police officers due to the stressful and demanding nature of their duties.

According to the communication, the appointment of professional psychiatric social workers would help police personnel cope more effectively with work stress, improve overall well-being, reduce health-related expenditure and minimize workforce losses due to mental health problems.

The recommendation calls for deployment of such professionals in all district police offices, commissionerates, armed police units, police training institutions and other police establishments across Karnataka. The proposal is believed to have gained support through a representation made by the State Committee of the Bengaluru Police Welfare Association.

The matter has been submitted to the relevant authorities for consideration and necessary action. It will be recalled that the city police has appointed welfare officers to provide necessary support and assistance to police officers who needed physiological and psychological help.

Published – 18 Jun 2026 23:58 IST