CHANDIGARH: Apprehending laxity in discharge of duty by the police personnel who reportedly remained glued to their mobile phones, the Haryana Police constables will now be required to submit their mobile phones and other electronic devices before starting their shifts.
This measure will be enforced at all police stations, police posts, and police lines.
They can communicate with family members only via the cell phone of their in-charge. For official communication, the police wireless system would be used, said sources.
In the directions issued by Haryana Director General of Police Shatrujeet Kapur on December 10 to all district police chief, it has been directed not to use mobile phones or any communication device during traffic management, law and order duty, VIP duty, vehicle checking, PCR or rider duty, raids, confidential meetings, and training exercises.
All police personnel have been directed not to reveal the purpose of their duty, place and confidential information on social media.
The letter said that the decision has been taken after considering that the use of mobile phones or other electronic communication devices during duty distracts employees, poses a risk to public safety and also tarnishes the image of the police force.
It also added that no staff member except for the team-in-charge is allowed to carry a mobile phone or any other communication device during duty unless a senior officer permits it for a specific person and ant permission which is given must be recorded.
Also all unit in-charges or supervisory officers had been made responsible for ensuring compliance with these instructions. As they will have to ensure by periodical checking whether police personnel under their command are spending excessive time on mobile phones or social media during duty. Sources said that these directions these directions will improve the working and efficiency of the police force on the ground and enhance their image in public.