In a stern move, the Ferozepur police in Punjab have been directed to register a formal case against government officials who were absent from their assigned duties during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the district. The order comes after a high-level inquiry identified lapses and negligence.
SSP's Direct Order for FIR
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Saurabh Jaiswal has issued clear instructions to the concerned police station to file a First Information Report (FIR) against the absent officials. This decisive action follows the submission of a detailed inquiry report that pinpointed individuals who failed to report for their security and protocol responsibilities on the day of the Prime Minister's event.
The inquiry was initiated to scrutinize the arrangements and conduct of officials during PM Modi's rally in Ferozepur. The report, which has now been acted upon, concluded that the absence of these officials constituted a serious dereliction of duty, potentially compromising the smooth execution of the high-profile visit.
Context of the High-Profile Visit
The visit in question was a significant political event, drawing large crowds and requiring meticulous coordination between various state departments and security agencies. Protocol and security duties for such visits are assigned well in advance, and officials are expected to be present at their designated posts without exception.
The failure of certain officials to appear not only reflected poorly on administrative discipline but also raised concerns about preparedness. The SSP's order to book the errant officials underscores a zero-tolerance policy towards negligence in matters of state security and VIP protocol.
Implications and Expected Actions
This move by the Ferozepur police leadership is expected to set a strong precedent for accountability within the civil and police administration. Filing an FIR is a serious legal step that could lead to criminal proceedings, signaling that such negligence will not be dealt with through mere departmental memos or suspensions.
The officials who skipped duty now face potential charges, which could range from disobedience to order to more serious sections related to endangering public safety or obstructing government work. The police are compiling the necessary evidence and documentation from the inquiry report to proceed with the formal lodging of the case.
This incident has sparked discussions about the enforcement of discipline, especially for critical assignments involving the security of top national leaders. The action demonstrates an attempt to enforce strict accountability and ensure that such lapses are not repeated in the future during any official visit in Punjab or elsewhere.
