THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has warned of strict action against social media attack targeting police officers on religious grounds.
“There is a rising trend of social media attacks against law and order officers on the basis of their religion and beliefs. The culprits will be brought before the law,” he said after reviewing the passing-out parade of civil police officers here on Saturday.
The chief minister’s comments were in the backdrop of hate campaigns against IG Manoj Abraham, who along with IG S Sreejith was in charge of the security arrangements at Sabarimala during the five-day monthly poojas.
“Religious beliefs do not come in the way of a police officer while discharging his duties. Officers are bound to act in accordance with the law. Never ever have Kerala Police officers mixed up religion and official duties,” he said. Of the 251 civil police officers who passed out, 118 were degree holders, 24 post-graduate degree holders, 14 engineering graduates and four MBA holders. The chief minister said the force will utilise their high educational qualifications through suitable postings.
The chief minister lauded the new recruits for joining the force in the rescue and rehabilitation activities during the recent floods. He said it was the first batch of trainees who received more classroom training than physical practice.
“That doesn’t mean physical fitness was compromised. They have also been trained in swimming and driving,” he said.
The chief minister asked the force to behave in a decent manner with the people. “Police are the face of the government. People expect cordial behaviour from the police. Civil police officers who interact with the people most should be good-natured,” he said.