Karnataka High Court asks security, police organisations to review mental health policies for armed personnel
Justice Suraj Govindaraj passed the order while quashing the criminal proceedings against a 37-year-old CISF Sub-Inspector for attempting to kill herself in 2022 by using her service pistol while on duty in Mangaluru
The Karnataka High Court has directed security and police organisations to review and strengthen mental health policies for armed personnel, following the case of a 37-year-old CISF Sub-Inspector who attempted to commit suicide in 2022. The court ruled that personnel serving in these forces are also human beings with personal problems and mental health issues that can affect their ability to perform their duties.
The court emphasized that the expectation for personnel to remain available for duty at all times, regardless of their personal circumstances or mental condition, needs to change. The court ordered the authorities to provide accessible and confidential counselling, professional mental healthcare, and timely treatment for personnel at all levels, including those in remote locations.
Commanding and supervisory officers must be trained to recognize signs of distress and provide appropriate assistance, while personnel who undergo mental health treatment should receive suitable support for rehabilitation and return to duty.
Brief written by urgent.news from The Hindu's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
