Karnataka Police chief orders installation of temporary toilets for personnel during bandobast duties, lays emphasis on women staff

Karnataka's Director General and Inspector General of Police, M.A. Saleem, has issued a directive to all police unit heads, mandating the provision of temporary toilet facilities, with a special emphasis on separate and secure toilets for female officers, during large scale police operations. The circular, issued on October 29, 2026, underscores that access to clean and hygienic toilets is a fundamental requirement, directly linked to the dignity, health and effectiveness of the police personnel.

It highlights that officers and staff, who remain on duty for extended periods on the roads, frequently encounter the absence of toilet facilities, which can adversely impact their physical well-being, alertness, and overall performance. The circular also points out that prolonged denial of toilet access can result in urinary tract infections, dehydration, gastrointestinal issues, and unnecessary fatigue.

It further notes that women officers face additional challenges due to considerations of privacy, safety, and menstrual hygiene. The police chief has further instructed officials to ensure routine cleaning and upkeep of these facilities, along with a constant supply of water, soap or hand sanitizer, and tissues or paper. A designated individual or agency has been tasked with maintaining these facilities throughout the event.

Supervisory officers at the zonal level have been asked to ensure that personnel take regular breaks to use the toilet, preventing them from being confined to their duty points without such an opportunity. Drinking water must also be made available at all times. Each police unit is required to appoint a woman representative for every major operation to oversee the arrangements and promptly address any complaints.

The expenditure on procuring or arranging temporary toilet facilities must be accounted for in the bandobast budget estimates. Any shortfall in funds must be reported to senior officers well ahead of time. Mr. Saleem has emphasized that the welfare of the staff is the responsibility of the police department, urging all police commissioners, range inspectors general, and district superintendents of police to prioritize this matter, ensure stringent adherence, and submit compliance reports.