Cops with family problems to get help from the force

The unique of programme of the Mumbai police that sees it play peace-maker between warring couples in the city, will now be used for families of policemen who have problems on the home front. The programme is called ‘Samvaad Tujha Majha’ (dialogue between you and me).

The unique of programme of the Mumbai police that sees it play peace-maker between warring couples in the city, will now be used for families of policemen who have problems on the home front. The programme is called ‘Samvaad Tujha Majha’ (dialogue between you and me).

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Deputy commissioner of police (enforcement) BG Shekhar confirmed that they would be starting the programme for families of police personnel as well very soon.

In December last year, the social service branch (SSB) started the programme to help reconcile warring couples, on the brink of separation. The technique is based on the analysis of post-separation experiences of couples. The police have a compilation of the hardships that couples go through after divorce. The findings show that children are worst affected by divorce.

Officials said the fight for custody results in prolonged legal battles and in most cases, the child develops psychological problems and can develop violent tendencies or take to crime.

An officer of the Mumbai police said the police force had a lot of couples who had marital problems. “Family problems in the police force are because of the long uncertain hours of the job. This is the main reason for family problems within families of policemen,” the officer said.

At times the family problem is also linked to bad habits and addiction to intoxicants, which takes a heavy toll on family life, the officer said.

The officer said as the concept has worked with other couples, now it could be used for the betterment of the police. “If the family life of the policeman is good then it would mean that he would be more attentive and productive in his work,” the officer said.

Since the start of the programme, nearly 1,175 couples have decided to bury their differences and stay together, the officer said.

Through its three counselling centres at Chembur, Santacruz and Crawford Market, a team of 10 officers and women police constables, the police play the role of negotiators and peace-makers in saving marriages. The officer said they conduct around two sessions every month.