Introduction: The Growing Discontent Among Police Constables’ Families
For days now, protests involving battalion police constables and their families have escalated from local districts to the heart of Hyderabad, Telangana. The battalion police families are voicing frustration, particularly demanding that their loved ones be stationed in a single location, like their counterparts in civil and Armed Reserve (AR) police. Their grievances reflect a call for improved work conditions and acknowledgment of the unique challenges they face, as they urge the government to respond to their needs. This article explores the core issues driving the protests, the demands made by the battalion families, and the historical context of these concerns.
Protests at the Secretariat: Demands for Job Stability
The unrest reached a new level as families of battalion police personnel gathered at the Secretariat in Hyderabad. The constables’ wives and other family members staged a protest, asking the government to reconsider the current rotational policies that compel battalion officers to change duty locations frequently. They argue that this system disrupts family life and makes it challenging for children to attend school without interruptions.
The battalion families demand that their spouses be allowed to serve in one place for extended periods, ideally for three to five years, similar to civil and AR police. This stability would not only ensure continuity in children’s education but also alleviate the psychological strain of constant relocations.
The Question of ‘Ek Police’ Promise: What Happened to the Pledge?
One of the central questions raised by these families concerns the ‘Ek Police’ initiative—a pledge that seemingly aimed to provide equal working conditions for all police personnel. The wives of battalion constables, who undergo rigorous exams, physical tests, and nine months of training, question why their spouses do not receive the same work stability as civil and AR officers. They express frustration at being seen as outsiders within their own profession and urge the government to understand the impact of these conditions on their families.
The demands are clear: allow battalion constables to work in one district for at least three to five years, reducing the need for annual relocations. This would not only support the families but also foster a sense of belonging and dignity among the officers. Families argue that without this policy change, their children’s education and family unity will continue to suffer.
Current Challenges: Extended Duty Days and Reduced Family Time
The newly imposed work regulations exacerbate these challenges. Previously, battalion personnel served 15-day duty cycles, often receiving a day off for travel to spend time with family. However, under the recent guidelines introduced by ADG Sanjay Kumar Jain, battalion officers are required to work 26 consecutive days with only four days off. This extended duty schedule leaves little time for family life, and officers report increased stress and fatigue due to the demanding hours.
The state has 13 battalions, with approximately 1,500 staff members in each, and each battalion typically maintains at least 200 personnel on duty in district headquarters. These shifts are organized into multiple companies, requiring rotation across police stations within the battalion’s jurisdiction. The stringent duty schedule and frequent relocations disrupt family dynamics and increase work stress for battalion officers.
Historical Context: How the System Has Evolved
In earlier years, battalion personnel had a somewhat balanced schedule, allowing for a 15-day duty period followed by a few days with family. The Congress government initially implemented the 26-day duty regulation, but now, under the recent ADG policies, battalion officers are finding it increasingly difficult to balance work and family responsibilities.
Historically, the concept of ‘Ek Police’ was introduced to create a unified policy across different police divisions, ensuring consistent treatment for all officers. This vision included rotating officers within their respective regions, yet many battalion constables and their families feel this promise remains unfulfilled. Consequently, their demand for stationing stability and a reduction in duty days is not just about convenience—it reflects a need for the government to support the unique challenges faced by these officers and their families.
Conclusion: A Call for Government Action and Support
The ongoing protests by battalion police families highlight the need for improved policies to support those who serve the community. The current system places an undue burden on officers and disrupts family life, leading to heightened stress and dissatisfaction. Allowing officers to remain in one location for three to five years, like their civil and AR counterparts, could help resolve these issues, creating a more supportive environment for battalion police personnel and their families.
Addressing these concerns is essential not only for the well-being of battalion officers and their families but also for fostering morale and stability within the police force. With a responsive approach, the government can demonstrate its commitment to the welfare of those who serve, ensuring that the ‘Ek Police’ promise is more than just a pledge.