Mind your language; avoid double meaning words, says Kerala DGP to cops

Thiruvananthapuram: Seeking an image makeover for police personnel, the Director General of Police in Kerala has laid out a code of behaviour for the men in khaki, asking them to be courteous to the public, shun words with double meanings and not to forget to say 'thank you' and 'sorry' where needed.

In a Facebook post, DGP T P Senkumar has urged the personnel to follow etiquette and mind their language while in public space.

In an appeal, the DGP has said they should use decent language while interacting with the public, avoid using words with double meanings and refrain from using colloquial words like 'eda, poda, vada' while addressing the people as it was not in good taste.

"Some police personnel have behaved badly with the general public. We have received complaints. This has brought bad name to the police force. Using abusive language, eda, vada, poda while addressing people not even taking into consideration their age, mocking at people cannot be allowed," he said.

"Creating impressions that things will not move without greasing the palms, will bring a bad name to the force," he said.

The DGP also pointed out that during traffic checking, police personnel should not use strong words, detain the vehicles for a long time without any reason. "Soft spoken and strong action' should be the motto of police," he said.

Senkumar also wanted the police personnel not to forget to say 'thank you' to those who help them and 'sorry' if they are in the wrong. Women and the elderly should not be unnecessarily summoned to the police station.

The Kerala DGP also wanted DySPs to take corrective measures in this regard, if necessary. Senior officers can also take classes for the lower ranked officials and monitor their progress and encourage policemen who earn the respect and regard of the public, he added.