The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken action by directing the Ministries of Health and Family Welfare, Home Affairs, and Chief Secretaries of states and Union Territories to provide Action-Taken Reports (ATRs) within eight weeks. This directive pertains to the measures implemented to safeguard the physical and mental health of police personnel across their respective jurisdictions. The NHRC’s decision follows a plea filed by human rights activist and lawyer Radhakanta Tripathy, prompted by the assassination of BJD heavyweight and former Health Minister, Naba Kishore Das, by a police ASI.
Allegations and Concerns
Tripathy alleges that governments across India have neglected the physical and mental wellbeing of police personnel, leading to instances of suicides, murders, and inefficiencies within law enforcement. He has brought to the NHRC’s attention several cases where police officers have underperformed, impacting crime investigations and subsequent convictions. Tripathy contends that assessments of police performance often overlook crucial factors such as mental and physical fitness, which are not documented in service records.
Legal Provisions and Calls for Action
Tripathy points to Section 21(4) of the Mental Health Care Act, 2017, which mandates mental illness insurance coverage and the establishment of a dedicated helpline for counseling police personnel. However, he alleges that these provisions have not been effectively implemented. He urges the NHRC to recommend comprehensive physiological, psychometric, and mental evaluations for police personnel to detect signs of suicidal tendencies. Tripathy also calls for the formation of a committee to assess the mental health of police personnel and implement rehabilitation measures for those in need.
NHRC Intervention and Recommendations
The NHRC has previously addressed mental health concerns raised by Tripathy regarding armed and para-military forces. Tripathy’s petition urges the NHRC to advocate for reduced duty hours and improved leave policies for police officers, allowing them to fulfill their familial obligations. He emphasizes the need for adequate staffing to alleviate duty hour pressures and facilitate time off for police officials.
In response to these pressing issues, the NHRC’s intervention underscores the importance of prioritizing the physical and mental wellbeing of law enforcement personnel nationwide.
