Panel pulls up Delhi Police for corruption

In its report, a parliamentary panel has pulled up the Delhi Police for prevalence of corruption among its ranks. Corruption in government departments, especially in the police force, impacts public at large, it said.

In its report, a parliamentary panel has pulled up the Delhi Police for prevalence of corruption among its ranks. Corruption in government departments, especially in the police force, impacts public at large, it said.

The panel has also suggested that CCTV cameras should be installed at all traffic signals to prevent traffic policemen from taking bribes. There will be a constant monitoring of not just traffic movement, but also whether the police personnel are discharging their duties honestly.

“The Delhi Police’s zero-tolerance policy to corruption flies in its own face when people observe traffic police officials accepting money at red lights from bus drivers and commuters for violation of traffic rules. It is said that transporters, particularly bus operators, have to pay them a monthly fee at various points on their route of operations,” the committee said in the report.

Another important suggestion was formation of flying squads that would conduct raids and organise traps. The committee has also directed the Delhi Police to take corrective measures to change its image of ‘paying money for lucrative postings”.

In its reply to the panel, the Delhi Police had claimed that all complaints of corruption are immediately looked into and strict action is taken if the allegations are substantiated. “As regards the appointments to various posts within the Delhi Police, transfers and postings are decided by the Delhi Police Establishment Board and not by any individual. The Delhi Police maintains total transparency in this regard,” the force had said in its reply.

Police also said that its vigilance branch conducts enquiries into complaints of non-registration of cases, corruption and other malpractices against police officials. The department, it said, also maintains a list of personnel of doubtful integrity.