C’garh House clears way for new-look police

The Chhattisgarh Police Act 2007, which proposes to introduce wide ranging changes in the police machinery, was introduced in the Assembly on Thursday.

The Chhattisgarh Police Act 2007, which proposes to introduce wide ranging changes in the police machinery, was introduced in the Assembly on Thursday. The Act, which was passed by a voice vote after a three-hour long debate, will replace the existing Police Act, 1861.

Home Minister Ram Vichar Netam said the Act, prepared on directions of the Supreme Court, aims to provide a new law for establishment, regulation and management of the police force as well as redefine its duties and responsibilities. “The new Act will enable the police to function in a professional, accountable, people friendly and responsive manner,” he added.

“The Act reflects the expectations of people regarding police in a democratic set-up. The concerns of human rights, weaker sections and SCs/ STs have also been addressed,” he added. The Supreme Court had recently set a new deadline to the states for enacting the legislation.

However, opposing the Act, the state Congress demanded that it be referred to a select committee of the House for a detailed discussion. “As the Act aims at making widespread changes in the existing policing system it should be first discussed at length. The Government should hold widespread discussion on the issue before tabling a Bill in such a hurried manner,” stated leader of Opposition Mahendra Karma.

The Act proposes to establish a State Police Commission headed by the Home Minister. The Commission would formulate provisions to make the police force more people friendly. There is also a provision for the creation of a Police Establishment Board under the chairmanship of the Director General of Police to monitor the law and order situation in the state. The establishment of an independent commission, under the chairmanship of a retired judge, which will look into complaints made against the police is also proposed. The Act also proposes a fixed two-year tenure for the DGP, Superintendents of Police of various districts and Station House Officers.