Karnataka govt to implement new policy on police transfers?

The Karnataka Home Department is reportedly in the process of developing a new policy regarding police transfers. The intention is to provide support to honest officers who have faced challenges in obtaining suitable positions throughout their careers.

According to sources, the proposed policy includes an amendment that aims to restrict transfers for a minimum of two years.

This policy will apply specifically to district Superintendent of Police (SP) level officers and those above the inspector grade. It has been decided that the maximum and minimum term for an SP at a station, sub-division, or district will be set at two years. Additionally, it is contemplated that officers must serve in a non-executive post for two years following their term.

The policy reportedly stipulates that an inspector or sub-divisional officer who has served as a station officer for two years cannot seek the same position again for the next two years. However, the government retains the authority to remove officials facing charges of indiscipline, corruption, or dereliction of duty at any time.

Sources said that this initiative aims to address the issue of officers being unable to serve adequately in one position due to various lobbying activities within the department. The Home Department’s new policy seeks to curb these lobbies that influence strategic postings.

Home Minister Dr. Parameshwar has reportedly submitted the proposal to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, advocating for the necessity of this new policy in the context of departmental reform.

Sources told “Udayavani” that the CM has responded positively and instructed that a draft of the amendment bill be prepared after thorough consideration from all perspectives.

The Home Department also plans to present this amendment bill during the legislative session in July. Initially, this rule will not apply to Sub-Inspector, ASI, Head Constable, or Constable levels. However, if successful at the inspector level and above, there is consideration of extending it to the entire department.