Guwahati, May 01: In a move aimed at improving the efficiency and productivity of the Assam Police Department, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced that 300 police officers who are “habitual drinkers” will be offered voluntary retirement (VRS).
Sarma said that these police personnel have a drinking problem that is affecting their work and there have been serious complaints against them. He added that the procedure for the VRS has begun, and the government will hire new personnel to fill the 300 positions.
“Nearly 300 officers and staff in the state police department are habitual drinkers. For them, the government maintains a voluntary retirement scheme (VRS). They will be given that as per the existing rules,” Sarma said.
The Assam Police department has been struggling with a shortage of personnel, and the decision to offer VRS to the “heavy drinkers” is expected to address this issue and also improve the quality of work. The move is also expected to send a strong message to the other police officers who may be indulging in similar behavior.
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However, the decision has also been criticized by some who feel that the government should focus on rehabilitation and counseling for the officers instead of pushing them toward retirement. They argue that these officers have been serving the department for years and may have underlying mental health issues that need to be addressed.
Nevertheless, the government’s decision to offer VRS to the “heavy drinkers” is expected to improve the efficiency of the Assam Police Department and ensure better law and order in the state.
