Only khaki pants and shirts for women cops in Karnataka
02:59PM Sun 21 Oct, 2018
BENGALURU: Policewomen across the state will soon be seen sporting the standard khaki uniforms consisting of pants and shirts along with a belt and boots instead of the khaki sarees which are preferred by some serving police personnel.
In a recent meeting chaired by Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG&IGP) Neelamani N Raju, this decision was taken so as to make it easier for policewomen to react faster in preventing crime.
An order to this effect was issued by Neelamani Raju after holding talks with senior police officers including women police personnel.
In the meeting, the uniform system in the department was reviewed along with other guidelines for women police personnel holding the rank of constable and above.
The rule has been introduced as some concerns were raised about the ability of women personnel to chase and catch criminals or respond quickly to an escalating security situation when dressed in a saree as compared to the standard uniform.
In particular, the problems with having to chase and catch chain snatchers was discussed leading to the decision, sources said.
Ground rules are also laid down for policewomen in terms of their overall appearance to ensure they look professional at all times. This includes directions to keep their hair tied in a bun and to avoid colouring their hair, wearing flowers or makeup.The order will be enforced across all police stations in the state.
The order will be enforced across all police stations in the state and promises strict departmental action against those found violating the dress code.
Speaking to Express, a senior police officer from the City Police Commissionarate said, “There will be some relaxation for women who are pregnant. On special occasions as well, the saree will be permitted. However, in all other cases, non-compliance will be dealt with strictly.” For the serving women on the police force, the decision is a welcome one for most.
“It is good to wear the uniform when we come for work. I believe it is more comfortable for police duties. I welcome the order issued by the DG&IGP and will implement it in our police station,” said a female sub inspector from the North East Division.
DRESS CODE
- Uniform: Standard police khaki pants and shirt with belt.
- Hairstyle: Hair must not be let loose. Must be tied in a bun and covered in black net or tied down with a black colour hairpin or hair band. No flowers, no makeup. No hair colour except dyeing to natural colour.
- Earring, Bindi and Bangle: Earrings, if worn, must be small in size with no dangling parts. Bindi must be small. Only one small bangle made of metal and no glass bangles.
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