National Police Commission | Public Administration Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Introduction

The National Police Commission (NPC) in India was established with a visionary aim to revolutionize the country's police organization and address various crucial aspects, including responsibilities, roles, citizen connections, political interference, abuse of power, and performance evaluation. As the first national commission after India's independence, the NPC was established under exceptional circumstances, instilling hopes for a robust and unbiased police force. In this article, we delve into the comprehensive mandates of the National Police Commission, exploring its significant reports, functions, and the impact it seeks to make on India's policing system.

Reasons for the National Police Commission (NPC)

The formation of the National Police Commission on November 15, 1977, stemmed from a pressing need to enhance the role and duties of the police force in India. With Shri C.V. Narasimhan assuming the position of Member Secretary on November 26, 1977, the commission embarked on a journey to thoroughly investigate police-related issues and conduct a nationwide review of the police system. The commission's far-reaching terms of reference covered various aspects of police enforcement, making it a vital institution for reform.

Reports of the NPC

The National Police Commission has produced eight insightful reports, each offering valuable recommendations for transforming India's policing system. Let's explore the key findings and proposals from some of these reports:

1. First Report: Complaints about Police Officers: The inaugural report of the NPC focused on establishing a fair and impartial system for addressing complaints against police officers. The commission proposed measures such as independent investigations conducted by officials outside the police department. Additionally, it recommended mandatory judicial inquiries for severe complaints, including instances of death or severe harm to individuals in police custody, rape of women in police custody, and fatalities resulting from police firing during the dispersal of unlawful gatherings.
2. Second Report: Appointment of the Criminal Justice Commission: The second report emphasized the need for a coordinated approach within the criminal justice system. To achieve effective outcomes, the NPC proposed the establishment of a comprehensive body responsible for evaluating the progress of all departments and implementing remedial actions as necessary. This report addressed issues such as policy responsibilities, political interventions, transfer and suspension orders, and the selection process for top police officials.
3. Third Report: Police Reforms for Weaker Sections of Society: In its third report, the National Police Commission emphasized the importance of addressing the concerns of marginalized communities. The NPC recommended the creation of a specialized investigation department within the police force to monitor cases related to the Protection of Civil Rights Act and atrocities against Tribes and Scheduled Castes. The report also stressed the prevention of potential breaches of public peace resulting from inaction against complaints related to non-cognizable offenses and the provision of adequate protection to vulnerable sections of society.
4. Fourth Report: FIR Registration and Streamlining Investigations: The fourth report of the NPC advocated for the registration of First Information Reports (FIRs), even if the crime occurred outside the jurisdiction of the concerned police station. It also emphasized the importance of recording witness statements as mandatory evidence in any investigation. Additionally, the report highlighted the need to return stolen property to victims and empowered the police to investigate simplified compound cases.
5. Fifth Report: Recruitment and Role of Police Officers: The fifth report focused on the recruitment process and responsibilities of police officers. The NPC recommended a two-level recruitment procedure, including mandatory psychological testing and regular physical training evaluations for candidates. It also emphasized the role of district magistrates as chief coordinating authorities and the inclusion of women in complex investigations. Transparency in police activities, excluding secret operations and judicial requirements, was another notable aspect of this report.
6. Sixth Report: Promotions, Cadres, and Minority Representation: The sixth report of the National Police Commission highlighted the need for regular assessments of officers' promotions and the establishment of Indian Police Service (IPS) cadres in paramilitary and associated organizations. It discouraged the transfer of certain heinous cases to prevent communal riots and suggested the reservation of positions for minorities and weaker sections within the police force.
7. Seventh Report: Standardization of Police Stations: The seventh report emphasized setting standards and norms for police stations and proposed the establishment of a Central Police Committee. It also advocated for the enactment of regulatory laws governing armed police forces and the restructuring of all Indian Police institutes.
8. Eighth Report: Accountability and Model Police Act: The final report of the NPC stressed the importance of police officials' accountability and the withdrawal of protection under specific acts. It proposed the enactment of a model police act and provided detailed guidelines for police operations to meet regulatory requirements.

Functions and Responsibilities of the National Police Commission (NPC)

• The National Police Commission possesses several powers and functions aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and fairness of the police force. These include:
• Recruitment and appointment of individuals in the police force, as well as making decisions regarding transfers and promotions, while adhering to national legislation.
• Verifying appointments and maintaining disciplinary control, ensuring due process is followed.
• Undertaking any additional duties mandated by national legislation to address police discrepancies and supervising police entrance exams.

Conclusion

The National Police Commission has laid down remarkable guidelines encompassing all aspects of police operations in India. It was established with the noble intent of eliminating shortcomings and political interference in the country's policing system. While time will ultimately determine the commission's effectiveness, its reports and recommendations serve as a crucial step toward transforming India's police force into a more accountable, transparent, and citizen-centric institution.