Karnataka police chief orders integrity checks amid misconduct cases
Bengaluru (PTI): In response to a surge in cases involving police personnel in robbery, theft and fraud, Karnataka DG&IGP M A Saleem has directed all police units to conduct regular background checks, integrity assessments and counselling to prevent misconduct in the force.
He warned that any police officer or staff member found engaging in criminal acts will face the "most severe" disciplinary action.
In a circular dated December 5 issued to all SPs, zonal heads, commissioners, the top cop stated that such involvement of police personnel in criminal or illegal activities is completely unacceptable.
He cited recent incidents, including the Davangere case, where two police sub-inspectors were arrested for allegedly robbing a gold merchant after posing as IG Squad officers, and the Bengaluru case in which a Govindpura police constable was held for his role in a meticulously planned, high-value cash robbery in collusion with a former cash management firm employee.
"These incidents bring shame to the force, damage public confidence, and cast doubt on the integrity of the entire law enforcement machinery," he said.
According to the circular, DG&IGP Saleem has directed the unit officers to conduct regular background checks and integrity assessments of all subordinate officers and staff without fail.
He has instructed the department to organise awareness sessions and training programmes on ethical conduct, legal responsibilities, and the consequences of corruption and misconduct.
"Immediately report to Police Headquarters any information regarding illegal activities or criminal behaviour by any police officer or employee," it stated.
The unit officers have been instructed to provide guidance and counselling programmes to address issues related to low morale, work-related stress, and other factors that may contribute to ethical lapses.
The police chief has asked the unit officers to strictly enforce the existing Code of Conduct and ensure that no deviations are tolerated under any circumstance.
"Failure of Unit Officers to proactively and fully implement these measures will be treated as gross negligence and will attract departmental disciplinary action. Any compromise with the dignity, honour, or integrity of the police department is unacceptable," the circular stated.
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Experience comes when you play bigger teams in bilateral series: Rashid Khan
Chennai (PTI): Afghanistan skipper Rashid Khan called for more bilateral series against stronger cricketing nations after his team signed off from the T20 World Cup on a high, defeating Canada in their final group match here on Thursday.
Afghanistan played some exhilarating cricket, going down to South Africa in a gripping second Super Over after the scores were tied, a humdinger that provided one of the early thrills of the World Cup.
However, the spin-bowling stalwart said Afghanistan could make significant strides if they get regular opportunities to compete against stronger cricketing nations.
"Couple of areas to improve, with the batting, the middle order got a bit stuck against the big teams, and then with the bowling the death overs. That comes when you play the bigger teams in bilateral series," said Rashid after his team defeat Canada by 82 runs, with him returning excellent figures of 2 for 19.
The stalwart said the side had arrived well prepared for the tournament and produced some breathtaking cricket, but admitted the narrow defeat to South Africa proved costly and remained a painful setback.
"We were well-prepared (for the tournament), we played some unbelievable cricket. The game against South Africa, that really hurt everyone. We had to win one of those (first two) games and see how the tournament unfolded. We'll take some positive things from this World Cup and look forward," he said.
With head coach Jonathan Trott set to part ways with the team, Rashid described the departure as an "emotional" moment for the side.
"I think we had some wonderful times with him. Where we are now, he played a main role. It's emotional to see him leave us, but that's how life is. We wish him all the best and somewhere down the line we see him again."
Ibrahim Zadran, who was named Player of the Match for his unbeaten 95 off 56 balls, said it was satisfying to finally register a substantial score after two below-par outings.
"I enjoyed it, didn't play better cricket in first two innings, which I expect. Wanted to back my skills, really enjoyed it. Pressure was there, it's there all the time. I want to put myself in pressure situations and enjoy it," said Zadran.
"Wanted to play positive cricket, rotate strike and punish bad ball, create partnerships and this is what I have done."
