Thiruvananthapuram: Cops checking vehicles should exercise maximum restraint, avoid checking at junctions and turnings and address motorists politely as “sir, brother, madam or sister”.
This is part of State police chief T P Senkumar’s guidelines, insisting that officials checking vehicles inform district control rooms in advance and give a declaration about the cash with them before checking.
If any police official carries out vehicle checking without informing the control room, action will be initiated after inquiry. Except in unavoidable circumstances, do not on narrow roads.
The main purpose of these measures should be to check accidents by curbing rash and negligent driving, drunken driving and violation of road rules.
While male motorists should be addressed 'sir' or ‘suhrithe’ (friend), a lady should be addressed ‘madam’ or ‘sahodari’. Avoid inconvenience to motorists, especially women and senior citizens.
In case of violations, police personnel should explain it to motorists and give them the option to remit the fine later at court. In case of provocation by motorists, police personnel should maintain utmost restraint and take action only after consulting senior officers. Road safety pamphlets should be also distributed as part of checking.
The DGP also issued a circular, directing cops’ prompt appearance at courts for cases. Now, many officials delay court appearance, citing silly reasons and contributing to case pileup.
