DGP issues circular pre Ganpati: No to donations from politicians, businessman

Director General of Police Satish Mathur

The men in khaki got a stern reminder ahead of Ganeshotsav next week, straight from the Director General (DGP) of the state police himself. The force has been told to avoid accepting money for the Police Welfare Fund from politicians, liquor producers and other influential elements as such donations will only end up being quid pro quo.

Many police stations, branches and units across the state celebrate major festivals, including Ganeshotsav, and also hold functions on police station premises. It has been observed that local politicians, businessmen and other influential people donate large sums towards these celebrations.

A senior police officer, requesting anonymity, said that the idea behind stopping cops from taking donations for celebrations was to make policing more transparent and unbiased. Politicians, builders, contractors and others usually seek ‘favours' from the police in return for donations.

DGP Satish Mathur, through a recently issued circular, reminded them that under the Police Welfare Fund rules, donations from such figures could not be accepted. The matter was also discussed during an internal police meeting of the Central Police Welfare Funds Management Committee.

The instructions are for all major celebrations at police stations, but because Ganeshotsav is widely celebrated across the state, a fresh reminder was issued to the policemen to adhere to the rules.

DGP Mathur, responding to queries, said the circular was related to the police welfare fund in general, and not specifically to Ganeshotsav.