PRS Report on Police Reforms in India for GS Mains paper

Under the Constitution, the police is a subject governed by states. Therefore, each of the 29 states has their own police forces. The centre is also allowed to maintain its own police forces to assist the states with ensuring law and order. Therefore, it maintains seven central police forces and some other police organisations for specialised tasks such as intelligence gathering, investigation, research and recordkeeping, and training. The primary role of police forces is to uphold and enforce laws, investigate crimes and ensure security for people in the country. In a large and populous country like India, police forces need to be well-equipped, in terms of personnel, weaponry, forensic, communication and transport support, to perform their role well. Further, they need to have the operational freedom to carry out their responsibilities professionally, and satisfactory working conditions (e.g., regulated working hours and promotion opportunities), while being held accountable for poor performance or misuse of power. Therefore, Police reforms in India need due attention. This report provides an overview of the police organization in India and highlights key issues that affect their functioning. Index

1. Responsibilities of Centre and States
2. Data
3. Hierarchy and organization
4. Superintendence of the executive
5. Central Police Forces
6. Issues related to the Police system