Hyderabad Police Commissioner Warns Staff, Issues Action Over Victim Misconduct
Hyderabad Police Commissioner CV Anand has issued a stern warning to police personnel over the way complainants are treated at police stations. The latest update comes after internal decoy operations reportedly exposed rude behaviour, negligence, and delays in handling public complaints.
The findings have prompted disciplinary action, sending a clear message that disrespect towards victims will not be tolerated.
Hyderabad Police Cracks Down on Misconduct at Police Stations
During a recent crime review meeting at the Police Command and Control Centre in Banjara Hills, the Commissioner expressed serious concern over the conduct of some police station staff towards people seeking help.
He said citizens visit police stations during difficult times and deserve to be treated with dignity and sensitivity. Any official found behaving irresponsibly or discourteously with complainants would face departmental action, he warned.
The Commissioner also questioned officers on whether they would accept such treatment if their own family members visited a police station to report a grievance.
Decoy Operations Reveal Poor Response to Victims
As part of an internal review, the Hyderabad Police conducted secret decoy operations across multiple police stations to assess how frontline staff handled complaints.
Police personnel, dressed in civilian clothes, visited stations posing as complainants and later submitted detailed reports on their experience.
The exercise reportedly covered around 12 police stations. According to officials, reception constables, administrative Sub-Inspectors, and Assistant Sub-Inspectors at several locations were found speaking harshly to complainants and showing little interest in resolving their grievances.
The reports also pointed to unnecessary questioning, directing citizens to other police stations without proper guidance, and making dismissive remarks while interacting with the public.
Charge Memos Issued After Internal Review
Following the findings, the police department issued charge memos to reception staff, administrative Sub-Inspectors, and some Inspectors.
Officials said certain Inspectors were also held responsible for failing to supervise their staff and ensure proper public interaction at their respective police stations.
The Commissioner made it clear that supervisory officers would also be held accountable if such behaviour continued under their watch.
Commissioner Warns of Strict Departmental Action
The internal assessment also revealed instances where complaints were not accepted immediately. Instead, some complainants were allegedly asked to return another day, resulting in unnecessary delays.
The Commissioner directed all police personnel to respond promptly to people approaching police stations and ensure that complaints are handled without avoidable inconvenience.
He warned that negligence towards public grievances could invite suspensions, transfers, and other departmental action.
Focus on Public Trust and Accountability
The police investigation into internal functioning was aimed at improving public service standards and strengthening accountability within police stations.
Officials said respectful treatment of complainants remains a basic responsibility of every police officer, regardless of rank. The latest update reflects the department's effort to improve public confidence and ensure that citizens approaching the police receive timely assistance and professional conduct.