Indian police: Personnel may be fined for delay in services
In an attempt to ensure prompt delivery of public services, the Bureau of Police Research and Development has suggested penalizing personnel who fail to conduct duties properly. Fines may range from Rs. 250 daily to a net Rs. 5,000, depending on whether an officer couldn't provide the service, or delayed it. The BPR&D has listed 45 'public delivery services' for benefit of citizens.
BPR&D recommendations on penalties
BPR&D has suggested a 20-day limit for police to complete inquiry for verification of passports, and issuance of NoC for arms licence. They will have to release impounded vehicles within three days of completion of formalities, register foreigners visiting India within seven, and verify details of tenants, employees and servants in 15. An officer would be made responsible for services at all police stations.
One police officer for 729 Indian citizens
Citizens can approach a revisional authority and appellate authority, which the BPR&D says can be constituted of senior police officers. However, considering there is one police officer overlooking Indian 729 citizens, personnel might have a tough time keeping up with the new provisions.
Nobody listens to our orders: SC on police reforms
In September 2006, the SC issued directions for police-reforms, and asked states and the Centre to pass new acts accordingly. Since then, 17 states have enacted new acts and 12 issued executive orders, but almost none follow the SC's directive; political powers have been retained by governments. Last month, the SC observed that "reforms are going on and on. Nobody listens to our orders".
