Work fearlessly, Ill take responsibility: CRPF chiefs message to personnel amid pellet gun row
The remarks came amid growing criticism over the police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) action during the July 20 "Sansad Chalo" march organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar.
PTC News Desk: As the controversy surrounding the alleged use of excessive force by police personnel during the recent demonstrations over recent anti-NEET paper leak protests snowballs, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Director General Gyanendra Pratap Singh has assured jawans and officers that he will stand by every bona fide decision taken in the discharge of their duties and take responsibility wherever accountability arises.
Addressing personnel at the CRPF investiture ceremony on July 27, Singh said, "Whatever decisions and actions you take in the bona fide discharge of your duties, I take responsibility for them".
He also told the force, "Continue to perform your duties fearlessly; do not hesitate while carrying out your responsibilities".
He added, "Wherever responsibility or accountability needs to be taken, I will take it as the Director General of the CRPF".
The remarks came amid growing criticism over the police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) action during the July 20 "Sansad Chalo" march organised by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) at Jantar Mantar.
The protesters were demanding accountability in the NEET paper leak case and a transparent examination system. Clashes broke out when they tried to march towards Parliament. Protesters alleged that security personnel used tear gas, lathi charges and pellet rounds to disperse the crowd, leaving several students injured.
CRPF praises personnel
The CRPF said its headquarters has sent a communication to field units praising the patience and restraint shown by personnel during recent challenging deployments. The force assured its members that actions taken honestly and in the interest of the nation, the force and their duty would receive full institutional support.
However, the CRPF also warned that any reckless or unjustified use of force would lead to disciplinary action under CRPF rules and the law.
Probe into use of force
The CRPF has launched an inquiry through the Rapid Action Force (RAF) into allegations that excessive force was used during the Delhi protests.
The probe will examine social media videos, media reports and statements from jawans, company commanders and senior officers. It will also look into allegations regarding the use of pellet guns and shock batons.
Officials said that if the inquiry finds violations of standard operating procedures (SOPs), a formal Court of Inquiry will be ordered.