Top brass grants cops special leave for anniversary, birthdays

Just four days after commissioner Alok Kumar Verma took over the reins of the Delhi police, police personnel have something to cheer about.

In an order issued by the special commissioner of police Vasudeva Rao, the top brass has decided to grant all police personnel leave on their children’s birthdays and their own marriage anniversary. Though the step was initially taken by outer district DCP Pankaj Singh, the facility was extended to the entire force by Mr Rao on Thursday.

“It has been evident that police officers, especially the ones posted in police stations, do not get quality time to spend with their families which not only adds stress but reduces their performance,” DCP Pankaj Singh said.

“These men cannot take leave on any festivals be it Holi or Diwali as they have to ensure law and order in the city. In view of this,” the DCP added, “a decision to give them holiday, after prior permission from their senior officers, on two occasions — their children’s birthdays and their marriage anniversary — has been taken.”

“The leave, however, can be cancelled in some special situations.”

Soon after taking charge from former commissioner Bhim Sain Bassi, Mr Verma had in a wireless set message spoke about his intentions to ensure the welfare of his personnel. “I will try my best to better infrastructure and other facilities for the Delhi police personnel,” he had said during his address, adding, “I thank my officers for having served the city for so many years and hope that they will continue to do so.”

Praising the step taken by the special commissioner of police, a senior police officer said: “I think this was an extremely necessary step that has been taken,” adding, “Not only will it help relieve work pressure from already understaffed police force, it will also revitalise the officers to work more professionally.”