Austerity measures being taken by the Centre is making it difficult to create additional posts in the Delhi Police, even as there is a need to enhance efficiency of policing in the Capital.
An estimated expenditure of Rs.483 crore will have to be incurred annually if the strength of cops is increased.
Making this submission before the Delhi High Court on Wednesday, the Union Finance Ministry said the cost could be reduced by taking some other steps such as using the advancements in science and technology for policing, rather than creating additional posts or appointing more police personnel.
The Secretary (Expenditure) in the Finance Ministry, who appeared in person before a Division Bench of the High Court, said there was one policeman for 241 people in the Capital as of now, adding that the additional posts would be created only if absolutely necessary in view of austerity measures.
He said the Home Ministry could be asked to rationalise the proposal to induct more cops in order to reduce costs.
The Bench, comprising Justice B.D. Ahmed and Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva, which is hearing a public interest litigation initiated by itself on the subject, observed that increasing the number of policemen in Delhi was “costly but essential” for providing a safe and secure environment to the residents of the Capital.
The Court said though it was necessary to use technology and scientific methods of investigation to strengthen policing, the appointment of more policemen as well as bifurcation of maintenance of law and order and crime investigation works was essential.
Phased manner
The Bench suggested that the proposal be implemented in a phased manner by starting it in some police stations as pilot projects.
It also took note of a suggestion that the Finance Ministry and Home Ministry find a common ground to deal with the financial constraints and agree on a decisive action.
The Court directed the Centre to file a status report on the next date of hearing on October 14 with regard to its decision on the appointment of more police personnel.
On the issue of installation of closed circuit television cameras at different places, the Delhi government agreed to install the cameras as per the specifications given by the police. But, it said that the police should be directed to ensure their maintenance and surveillance.
The PIL was initiated by the Court in the aftermath of the December 16 gang rape incident.
The Court has given a slew of directions on the subjects of appointment of policemen, establishment of forensic laboratories and setting up of a victim compensation fund in the case.
The Union Finance Ministry said the cost could be reduced by taking some other steps such as using the advancements in science and technology for policing, rather than creating additional posts or appointing more police personnel
