By Dheeraj Fartode 

 

 

 

DIRECTOR General of Police (DGP) Rashmi Shukla, has raised serious objections on the extravagant farewell ceremonies organised at various police units across the State. DGP Shukla has warned of strict action against those involved in such practices and stressed on the need for adherence to standard police procedures. Police officers in the Maharashtra State Police Force undergo transfers routinely, based on rules and administrative requirements. Farewell ceremonies, a customary practice to honour transferring officers, have come under scrutiny due to certain practices deviating from the established protocol.

 

“During these ceremonies, it has been observed that officers in police uniform are adorned with coloured sashes, showered with flowers, and even subjected to unconventional rituals such as being pulled in a vehicle with a rope by the police station or senior officer. Furthermore, officers are sent off in a manner reminiscent of retiring officials differ from the standard procedure of the police force,” the DGP said. The DGP expressed that these events are often publicised on social media by the officers themselves for cheap publicity, but ultimately becoming the subject of ridicule among the public. Shukla stressed that citizens value the genuine performance and contributions of police officers rather than extravagant displays.

 

To address this issue, the DGP has issued clear instructions to all Heads of Police units to ensure that farewell ceremonies adhere to the standard procedures. The directive stressed that such inappropriate practices must be avoided, and strict instructions should be given to all Police Stations by the supervisory officers. “All unit heads and supervisory officers are now held responsible for taking strict action against any deviation or failure to comply with the instructions. Additionally, if any such matter comes to the attention of the Police Headquarters, the concerned Head of the Unit will be held accountable for the violation of established procedures,” she warned in the order.