Pankajnath Tiwari :-
The relationship between the police and politics in India has been a topic of debate and contention for many years. It is important to note that India is a federal parliamentary democratic republic, with a multi-party political system. The police force in India is primarily a state subject, meaning that each state has its own police force, headed by a Director General of Police (DGP) who reports to the state government.
Here are some key points regarding the relationship between the police and politics in India:
Political Interference: One of the major challenges in India is the issue of political interference in police matters. Politicians, particularly those in power, have been known to exert influence over the police force, whether it’s through transfers, appointments, or directing investigations. This interference can compromise the impartiality and independence of the police, leading to a lack of public trust.
Transfer Policies: Transfers of police officers are often used as a tool by politicians to reward or punish officers based on their loyalty or compliance. Frequent transfers and politically motivated postings can disrupt the functioning of the police force and create an environment where officers feel compelled to cater to political interests rather than upholding the law.
Criminalization of Politics: India has witnessed instances of politicians with criminal backgrounds or facing criminal charges holding positions of power. This situation can lead to a nexus between politicians and criminals, impacting law enforcement efforts. In some cases, politicians may use their influence to protect criminals or shield themselves from legal consequences.
Police Reforms: Recognizing the need for police reform, several committees and commissions have made recommendations to strengthen the police force’s independence and professionalism. The Supreme Court of India has also emphasized the importance of insulating the police from political interference. However, the implementation of these reforms has been slow, and significant changes are yet to be realized.
Public Perceptions: The public perception of the police force can be influenced by their interactions with politicians. Instances where politicians misuse their power or manipulate the police for their own interests can erode public trust and confidence in law enforcement agencies.
Election-related Activities: During elections, the police play a crucial role in maintaining law and order. However, there have been instances where politicians have used their influence to manipulate the police for electoral gains. This includes exerting pressure to favor particular candidates or parties, allowing for electoral malpractices, or suppressing political opponents. Such interference can undermine the fairness and integrity of the electoral process.
Political Pressure on Investigations: Politicians, especially those in power, can exert pressure on the police to influence the course of criminal investigations. This can range from interfering in high-profile cases to protect influential individuals to manipulating the pace and direction of investigations to suit political narratives. Such interference compromises the objectivity and integrity of the investigative process.
Lack of Autonomy: In some cases, the police force may lack sufficient autonomy from the executive branch of government, particularly at the state level. The control exercised by politicians over the police can impede their ability to act independently and enforce the law without fear or favor. This issue highlights the need for greater institutional safeguards to ensure the police’s autonomy and insulation from political pressures.
Politicization of Police Leadership: The appointment of senior police officers, including the Director General of Police (DGP), can sometimes be influenced by political considerations. This politicization of police leadership can lead to officers being chosen based on their loyalty to a particular political party or ideology rather than their merit or competence. It can hinder the professional development and effectiveness of the police force.
Positive Collaborations: While there are challenges in the police-politics relationship, it’s important to note that cooperation between the police and politicians is also necessary for effective governance and maintenance of law and order. Constructive collaborations can involve policymakers working closely with the police to address public safety concerns, formulate effective policies, and ensure the proper allocation of resources to law enforcement agencies.
Local Political Influence: In addition to the influence of politicians at the state and national levels, local politicians can also exert significant control over the police in their respective constituencies. This can lead to a situation where the police prioritize the interests of local politicians or political parties over their duty to enforce the law impartially.
Unwillingness to Act against Politicians: There have been instances where police officers hesitate or are reluctant to take action against politicians or their supporters, even in cases of criminal misconduct. This can be due to fear of retribution, pressure from superiors, or the perception that taking action against influential politicians would be politically damaging.
Selective Enforcement: There have been allegations of selective enforcement of the law by the police based on political considerations. This includes instances where police officers turn a blind eye to offenses committed by politicians or their supporters while taking strict action against political opponents. Such selective enforcement erodes public trust and confidence in the police force.
Police as Instruments of Harassment: In some cases, politicians in power have used the police as instruments of harassment and intimidation against political opponents or dissenting voices. This can involve filing frivolous cases, conducting unwarranted investigations, or making false allegations to suppress political opposition.
Public Pressure on Police: Politicians, particularly those with popular support or mass appeal, can exert indirect pressure on the police by mobilizing public opinion or staging protests. This can influence police decisions and investigations, leading to compromised law enforcement efforts and biased outcomes.
Need for Political Will: Addressing the challenges between the police and politics in India requires strong political will and commitment to uphold the rule of law. Political leaders need to prioritize the independence and professionalism of the police force over short-term political gains, and ensure that the police can perform their duties without fear or favor.
