The Supreme Court last week has sought the status of CCTV installation at all police stations. The Chief Secretaries of all the States and Union territories have been directed to furnish the information within two months pertaining to all the 16,000 police stations across the country.
It is a matter of concern that despite being already installed the CCTV is kept intentionally non-operational at many police stations. This helps to prevent any police atrocity from coming to light. The focus has also to be in ensuring that every police station is well equipped with the basic amenities. Sadly many police stations lack proper vehicles, wireless sets and provision for drinking water besides clean toilets. It has to be ensured that there is a proper facility for the police force to rest. That mantra of people friendly police stations has to a large extent remained merely on paper only while the pathetic ground reality is disturbing and there for all to see. Our democracy stands on three pillars: the executive, legislature and the judiciary. All three contribute to maintaining the democratic structure, but one that has the maximum, and most direct, impact on human life is that of the judiciary. And one of the most important rungs in the judicial ladder is made up of policemen and women. Yet the gap between the facilities, remuneration and resources enjoyed by the executive and legislature, when compared to the police entrusted to uphold the law is beyond comparison and comprehension. The police are entrusted with protecting citizens and providing the assurance that they are being protected and any situation is under control. It is therefore vital to have a well- equipped, well resourced, well rewarded police force as it will boost their morale and help to retain and recruit the best and the most honest who are responsible and accountable for looking after the citizens and the nation. Its time the Government acted in accordance with the Supreme Court’s ruling and to enhance the working lives of our police force. Afterall, the most fundamental responsibility of Government is to protect its citizens. Aires Rodrigues Advocate High Court C/G-2, Shopping Complex Ribandar Retreat, Ribandar – Goa – 403006 Mobile No: 9822684372 Office Tel No: (0832) 2444012 Email: airesrodrigu...@gmail.com Or airesrodrig...@yahoo.com You can also reach me on Facebook.com/ AiresRodrigues Twitter@rodrigues_aires www.airesrodrigues.com