By Vishwapati
Patna: The Bihar Police have announced a significant decision to maintain the strength of the force. Police officers and personnel who have become physically incapable due to illness will now be forcibly retired.
Citing official regulations, the Police Headquarters has issued guidelines to Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) and Superintendents of Police (SPs) across all districts to take action accordingly. Officers and personnel who are physically unfit due to conditions such as diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, chronic lethargy, or excessive sleepiness will be subject to compulsory retirement. Each district will prepare a list of such individuals.
The directive aims to ensure that personnel who have become a burden on the department are not retained in service. However, retirement will only proceed after a medical board, chaired by the Civil Surgeon, formally declares the officers unfit for duty.
According to a letter issued by Additional Director General (ADG) Headquarters, Kundan Krishnan, Rule 809 of the Bihar Police Manual-1978 allows for the retirement of officers and personnel deemed medically unfit. Reports suggest that every district has a substantial number of inactive and dishonest officers. In response, the Police Headquarters has directed SSPs and SPs to inform all officers and personnel about these regulations during monthly Police Sabha meetings.
Officers suffering from serious illnesses will be encouraged to seek proper treatment. A copy of this directive has been sent to all Range Inspectors General (IGs) and Deputy Inspectors General (DIGs). If, after receiving treatment, officers remain unfit for duty, a medical board under the Civil Surgeon will conduct an assessment. The final decision on retirement will be based on the board’s recommendations and in accordance with the Police Manual and state government policies.
The directive further instructs senior officers to initiate the process while ensuring transparency and avoiding any irregularities. Steps have been taken to maintain fairness in implementing these measures.
The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com
