Haryana DGP Asks Police to Be Courteous: Say ‘Sorry’ and ‘Thank You’
In a bid to strengthen public trust, Haryana’s Director General of Police (DGP) has instructed all police personnel to adopt polite behavior—including saying “sorry” when necessary and expressing gratitude with a “thank you.” The directive highlights the role of basic etiquette in improving police-citizen interactions.
Why Politeness Matters in Policing
The DGP’s advisory reflects a shift toward people-centric policing, where respect and approachability are as crucial as law enforcement.
- Builds Public Trust: Polite behavior fosters cooperation and reduces friction.
- Enhances Police Image: Simple gestures can counter negative perceptions.
- Social Media Impact: Courteous interactions prevent viral backlash.
“Politeness costs nothing but earns everything,” the DGP stated, urging officers to prioritize respectful communication.
Public Reactions: Hope & Skepticism
While many welcome the move, some remain cautious:
✔ Optimistic View: Citizens believe this could improve police relations.
✖ Skeptics Argue: Systemic issues like corruption must also be addressed.
A Gurugram resident said, “If implemented well, it could be transformative—but actions matter more than words.”
Challenges Ahead
- Work Pressure: Overburdened officers may struggle to maintain politeness.
- Cultural Shift: Changing long-standing behavior takes time.
Next Steps: Community Policing in Haryana
The directive aligns with community policing efforts like “Jan Sampark” programs. If successful, Haryana could set an example for other states.
Will this initiative reshape police-public relations? Only consistent implementation will tell.
