Surat, March 26 The conduct of a few police personnel has damaged the image of the entire police department, Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Paatil said on Thursday, asserting that society has high expectations from the force.
Speaking at the inauguration of police housing projects here in the presence of Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, the Union minister also said there should be a plan for an 8-hour shift system for the police.
"Society has high expectations from the police. Police should behave respectfully and politely with citizens. Complaints of impolite behaviour of police have decreased, but they can always try to improve more and create a good image in front of citizens. At times, the conduct of a few personnel has negatively impacted the entire department's reputation," Paatil said.
There have been a few incidents where attempts have been made to tarnish the image of the police, he added.
"Uniformed soldiers at the border fight external enemies, and citizens deeply respect them. Similarly, police officers also wear uniforms and protect citizens from internal threats. So why do many citizens feel resentment toward the police," he questioned.
Paatil also said there should be a plan for an 8-hour shift system for the police as "personnel should experience some peace in their lives".
Many police personnel feel they have excessive workload with comparatively low compensation, Paatil pointed out.
Addressing the gathering, Sanghavi said houses given to police personnel should not be considered government quarters, but their own homes.
Special care should be taken to maintain cleanliness in and around these homes, the Deputy CM added.
