Controversy surrounds Kerala's Police Rental Services for private use | Fusion - WeRIndia

In Kerala, a recent report has stirred controversy as it reveals that individuals and organizations can now rent the services of a police inspector and other services for a daily fee of a little over ₹34,000.

These include trained police dogs, wireless equipment, and even the use of a police station.

The intended clientele for this initiative, according to the government, includes private parties, film shoots, entertainment events etc.

This updated initiative, although not entirely new, has raised eyebrows and drawn criticism.

As per a government directive, the cost of hiring a circle inspector rank officer ranges from ₹3,035 to ₹3,340 per day.

For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the services of a civil police officer can be obtained for ₹610 per day.

Interestingly, police dogs are available for rent at around ₹7,500 daily. At the same time, wireless equipment can be secured at ₹12,130 per day. Furthermore, a police station can be rented for ₹12,000.

The logic behind the similar pricing of a police station and police wireless equipment, or the higher cost of hiring a police dog compared to a police officer, remains unclear from the government’s perspective.

Some government officials are unhappy with this decision. They believe that film companies and wealthy individuals who organize private events can afford their own security without renting police officers and equipment.

There are also moral concerns about using government-owned resources like personnel and property for private purposes.

Additionally, there are worries about the safety risks associated with hiring police officers and wireless equipment for events.

In a notable incident last year, four police officers were assigned to guard duty at a businessman’s daughter’s wedding in Kannur. This caused a big controversy.

In this regard, the state general secretary of the police officers’ association, emphasized that government resources, including police personnel, should not be used for grand displays.

He stressed the importance of following the specific rules set out in the government’s order.

Failing to do so could lead to unusual locations like a Kerala police station being used for events like weddings, with inspectors and police dogs overseeing them.

It’s crucial to ensure that government resources are used appropriately and by established procedures.

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