Give criteria for security cover to individuals/VIPs, HC asks Pb DGP

Chandigarh: Making plain its intent to examine the basis on which Punjab Police provides security cover to private individuals, the Punjab and Haryana high court has directed the Punjab DGP to furnish details about the individuals including VIPs, VVIPs and citizens assigned security personnel under different categories. The court has also sought details about the expenses incurred on providing security to such individuals and VIPs.
“It has been brought to the knowledge of this court that the norms and guidelines for granting security cover to individuals have been laid down in State Security Policy, 2013, which has been notified by the State of Punjab on September 2, 2013….Thus, DGP Punjab is requested to file an affidavit providing information with respect to the policy and place on record its copy,” the HC has ordered.

Justice Harkesh Manuja of the HC has passed these orders while hearing a criminal matter in which the witness was provided police protection after he had complained of a threat to his life. Court also noted that the matter had been pending for around six years and only one witness had been examined.
“The shortage of police personnel in the field is a significant factor, compounded by delayed investigations and prolonged trials, all cumulatively contributing towards the law and order situation,” the judge has observed.