India's long-promised journey towards comprehensive police reform has hit another roadblock, with delivery lagging far behind political assurances. The core issue, as highlighted by experts, is not merely a technological gap but a profound deficit in human sensitivity, public accessibility, procedural fairness, and crucially, citizen trust.
The Core Crisis: Beyond Technology and Infrastructure
A significant analysis points out that the real emergency in Indian policing stems from deep-seated systemic and attitudinal failures. Despite discussions on modernisation, a pervasive fear of approaching police stations remains common among ordinary citizens. This fear is rooted in experiences and reports of excessive force and the continued prevalence of custodial violence, which undermine the very foundation of law and order.
Furthermore, the integrity of investigations is frequently compromised. Political pressure and various social biases are often cited as influencing factors, steering cases away from impartial justice. This erodes public confidence and challenges the rule of law.
Promises Versus Ground Reality
Over the years, numerous committees and panels have recommended sweeping changes to transform the police force into a more accountable, citizen-friendly, and professional institution. Key areas identified for reform include:
- Enhancing police accountability and insulating investigations from political interference.
- Improving training to foster sensitivity towards citizens, especially vulnerable groups.
- Addressing the misuse of authority and ensuring strict consequences for custodial misconduct.
- Making police stations more accessible and less intimidating for the public.
However, the translation of these recommendations into actionable policy and consistent on-ground implementation has been slow and fragmented. The gap between reform promises and their actual delivery continues to widen, sustaining the existing crisis.
The Path Forward: Rebuilding Trust is Paramount
The commentary by N Ramachandran, published on 05 December 2025, underscores that without addressing these fundamental issues of trust and conduct, technological upgrades alone will remain superficial. For genuine reform, the focus must shift decisively towards:
- Building Institutional Integrity: Creating robust systems that protect investigative processes from external influences.
- Fostering a Service-Oriented Ethos: Transforming the police mindset from one of authority to one of public service and protection.
- Ensuring Swift Accountability: Implementing transparent and timely mechanisms to address police misconduct.
The urgency for action is clear. As India progresses, an efficient, just, and trusted police force is not just an administrative goal but a critical prerequisite for a healthy democracy and the protection of citizens' rights. The delay in delivering these core reforms only deepens the existing deficit and hinders national progress.
