Punjab and Haryana High Court Mandates Review of Police Transfer Policy for Senior Ranks
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a significant directive to the Punjab Police, urging them to reconsider their transfer policy to include senior officers. A division bench, led by Justice Anupinder Singh Grewal, has asked the police force to evaluate the possibility of transferring officers of the rank of inspector and above who have remained stationed in a single district for three consecutive years.
Current Policy and Judicial Intervention
This judicial order came after Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav provided details regarding the existing transfer guidelines. During a videoconference appearance, DGP Yadav informed the court that, according to instructions dated May 21, 2020, police personnel from the rank of constable to inspector are subject to a maximum three-year tenure in any particular district.
The bench expressed its astonishment at the limitation of this policy to only lower-ranking officials. "It is strange that such a policy is applicable to only lower rank police officials. Such a policy ought to be applicable to higher ranks," remarked the court. Consequently, the bench has directed the DGP to submit a formal affidavit addressing this discrepancy and outlining potential adjustments to the policy.
Broader Context and Additional Directives
During the hearing, the court also took note of disciplinary proceedings against the Mohali Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) related to a security lapse during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit on January 20, 2022. The Punjab government's counsel requested additional time to update the court on the status of these proceedings, which the bench acknowledged.
In a separate affidavit concerning measures against organized crime, DGP Yadav outlined several initiatives undertaken by the Punjab Police. These include:
- Initiating a security review of protectees to optimize manpower allocation.
- Ensuring adequate police availability for patrolling and maintaining law and order.
- Implementing all possible efforts to bolster public confidence and curb organized crime activities.
Addressing Extortion and Jail Security Concerns
Justice Grewal further instructed the DGP to provide detailed information in the affidavit regarding actions taken against extortion calls. Specifically, the court inquired whether any individuals who reported such calls to the police subsequently faced physical harm. This directive follows the establishment of a dedicated helpline on January 21 for citizens to report extortion attempts, which has received 279 calls to date.
The court has adjourned the matter to February 18 for further proceedings. Additionally, the bench has ordered the Punjab Principal Secretary (Jails) to file a status report detailing measures implemented to enhance jail security across the state. This comprehensive judicial oversight underscores the High Court's commitment to systemic improvements within Punjab's law enforcement and correctional facilities.
