Explained: Why Maharashtra DGP discontinued the use of tunic uniform – a British era overcoat

The Maharashtra DGP has issued a circular discontinuing the practice of officers of certain ranks wearing 'tunic uniforms'. What is a tunic uniform, and why was this order issued?

A tunic uniform is a British era overcoat worn over the traditional uniform by the police force.

Maharashtra DGP Sanjay Pandey on Wednesday (February 9) issued a circular discontinuing the practice of wearing a ‘tunic uniform’ for officers of certain ranks. What is a tunic uniform and why was this order issued?

What is a tunic uniform worn by police?

A tunic uniform is a British era overcoat worn over the traditional uniform by the police force. Worn by British police officers traditionally, it is suitable in the cold British climate. However, owing to the relative high temperatures and humidity here, the use of the tunic uniform in Maharashtra was restricted to ceremonial parades – two to three times a year — where the officers would wear it along with a cross belt and a sword over the coat.

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What is the latest circular by Maharashtra DGP regarding tunic uniforms?

In a circular issued on Wednesday, DGP Sanjay Pandey has discontinued the use of the tunic uniform for officers from the rank of Police Sub Inspectors (PSI) to Deputy Superintendent (DySP). Officers from SP rank and above can continue its use.

What is the reason behind the discontinuation of the tunic uniform?

Discomfort and it being expensive were two reasons that were cited by the DGP in his order. It was communicated to the DGP by lower rung officers that wearing the tunic uniform was uncomfortable in the hot climate and also getting the entire set including the sword, shirt, pant, tie and coat was expensive. Considering it was a British era relic, after taking into consideration the complaints, the DGP issued the circular.

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Mohamed Thaver

Mohamed Thaver is a highly specialized journalist with the Expertise and Authority required to report on complex law enforcement and legal issues. With a career dedicated to the crime beat for over a decade, his work provides readers with informed and trustworthy insights into Maharashtra's security and justice systems. Experience & Authority Core Focus: Has been exclusively covering the crime beat for over a decade, building deep, specialized knowledge in the field. Geographical Authority: Currently focuses heavily on law enforcement and policy in Maharashtra, providing authoritative coverage of the state's security apparatus. Key Beats: Law Enforcement: Reports on the operations of the Maharashtra Police and the Mumbai Crime Branch. Policy & Administration: Covers the Maharashtra Home Department, focusing on policy matters related to handling law and order and the evolution of the police force. Judiciary: Has significant past experience covering the courts, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the entire criminal justice process from investigation to verdict. Specialized Interest (Cyber & Forensics): Demonstrates Expertise in modern investigative techniques, with a keen focus on cyber crime and forensics, reporting on how these technologies assist complex crime investigations. Content Focus: His reports revolve around police probes, the evolution of the force, and state policy, ensuring his content is highly relevant and detailed. Credentials & Trustworthiness Mohamed Thaver’s long-standing specialization in the crime beat—combined with his focus on technological aspects like cyber crime and his direct coverage of major institutions like the Mumbai Crime Branch and the Maharashtra Home Department—underscores his Trustworthiness and status as an expert source for detailed and reliable journalism on law and order. He tweets @thaver_mohamed ... Read More