Delhi Police constable Subhash Chand Tomar’s death has brought the focus on what is called the backbone of the police force but has a back-breaking job — its junior rank personnel.

On Tuesday, Tomar succumbed to his injuries from Sunday when the protesting crowd became violent, which, in turn, led to police action.

All policemen below the rank of inspectors are scared. “The senior officers have it easy while we, despite working round-the-clock, face the heat and get suspended,” said a constable, who has been in service for 20 years.

Even police commissioner Neeraj Kumar’s “no one will be sacked” assurance cut little ice, as nearly a dozen police personnel, of them eight junior-level, have already been suspended.

The returns — salaries, perks and promotions — are also not in keeping with the nature of the job. Sources said over 10,000 officers of constable to sub-inspector rank are in service for 20 years but didn't get a single promotion despite rules specifying a promotion in 10 years.

Tomar may have even sparked a little jealousy in his death. “He got compensation, but what about others who faced injuries? Are senior officers waiting for us to die?” asked another constable.