BENGALURU: No sacred ash, no vermilion, no sacred threads on the wrist, ear studs or any other visible religious symbols during duty hours. This is the diktat to the city police force by the top bosses. And not adhering to it will attract action.
A circular issued by the City Police Commissionerate on April 5, particularly to the civil and City Armed Reserve police, stresses that policemen should look more like part of a disciplined force. Visible religious symbols make them look biased in certain situations, it says.
The department has directed senior officials to warn police personnel wearing or displaying any such symbols. Despite a warning, if they continue with such practices, action should be initiated against them, the circular states.
It also says that action will be taken against personnel who do not wear their uniforms properly, polish their shoes or do not get a hair cut.
In-charge Deputy Commissioner of Police (VVIP security) D Kishore Babu said, “The circular has been issued in view of maintaining discipline as per the rule book. Being in disciplined force, we should look neutral. If the police personnel do not abide by the rules, strict action will be taken.” He however said the circular makes no reference to women personnel.
Speaking to Express, another senior police official said that as per the police manual, even women personnel are not supposed to wear bangles or sport vermilion. But society does not accept it. Also, senior officials may have to face the ire of different sections of society if they object to women sporting vermilion or wearing earrings, the officer said.
Former Director General of Police S T Ramesh said, “Everybody has the right to follow their religion, but it should not cross the line. Generally, many of them put vermilion and sacred ash. I do not think it is wrong, but this should not be excessive.
This may affect the image of the force while policemen carry out their work. The officer in charge should judge what can be allowed or not.”