THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The police department will kick a soft skill training programme, incorporating aspects of emotional approach, use of right language, communication ability and interpersonal behaviour as part of improving the attitude of policemen towards the public. In a release on Monday, DGP Loknath Behera warned policemen of stringent action if they used third degree methods against suspects taken into custody. He directed zonal ADGPs, range IGs and district police chiefs to pay individual attention to prevent recurring third degree practices.
Mr Behera said the incident of a policeman hitting a bike rider with a wireless set and causing him grievous hurt in the course of enforcing traffic regulations in Kollam East police station limits was a clear instance of the police using third degree methods. He said the police official involved in the assault was suspended and directions had been sent to initiate criminal proceedings against him.
Mr Behera also expressed deep regrets for the police highhandedness, the release said. All police personnel are expected to behave politely towards the people. Officials, starting with civil police officers, should pay attention to prevent tendencies that violate the general guidelines. Mr Behera reminded his men and officers that he had already directed them to apply restraint even if they are provoked while checking traffic or enforcing law and order.
