THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The motorists can expect better behaviour from the police hereafter if the dos and don’ts they have been given at the statewide orientation programme on Tuesday are any indication. “Don't chase vehicles that do not stop for checking and show humanitarian considerations to motorists” were some of the guidelines prescribed by senior police officials to their junior colleagues at the programme on vehicle checking held at traffic stations. State police chief Loknath Behera on Monday had ordered simultaneous crash orientation programmes for police personnel in all districts in view of a series of allegations against the harsh vehicle checking.
Two motorists were killed in Alappuzha last week allegedly following a police chase to stop a two-wheeler that did not stop for checking. According to police sources, the cops were told not to forcibly stop any vehicle. "If a vehicle refuses to stop, its registration number should be noted and further action initiated. Attempts to waylay the vehicle at nearby locations by passing on wireless messages could also result in accidents," said assistant commissioner traffic (South) of Thiruvananthapuram city.
Thiruvananthapuram city police commissioner P. Prakash, who launched the orientation programme at the city traffic station, suggested that even in case of provocative behaviour from motorists, the police personnel should maintain restraint and could also record the act of the motorists using body-worn camera or mobile phone camera.
The cops were told to show humanitarian considerations towards senior citizens and those travelling with families comprising kids. Those who appear to be financially weak may be spared from heavy penalties and checking should be avoided during peak hours. Many police officials suggested that electronic surveillance should be extended to more areas. Some police personnel also lamented the harsh behaviour of many motorists citing their political or other higher connections.
