‘Policing in Ggm should match city’s character’

Haryana Police must redefine its public image through courtesy, empathy, and professional integrity, said Haryana’s director general of police (DGP) OP Singh on his first official visit to Gurugram on Saturday. In an exclusive interview with HT, after a review with the city’s top police brass at the commissionerate, the DGP discussed with Leena Dhankhar the challenges in policing and addressing the needs of the Millennium City.

- OP SINGH, HARYANA DGP

Edited excerpts:

What was the key message you conveyed to the Gurugram force?

My message was simple but firm—we must change the way people experience policing. Every officer on the field represents the entire force. When you stop a vehicle for checking, begin with courtesy: “I'm sorry sir/ma'am, we have to stop you for checking,” After conducting the required checks, thank them for their cooperation. These small gestures will humanise policing.

Gurugram’s nightlife and urban lifestyle bring unique policing challenges. How do you plan to manage this without harassment?