After several videos of police action during the protests at Jantar Mantar in Delhi went viral on social media and the police was criticized, Delhi Police has issued new guidelines regarding the behavior of policemen in public places. These instructions especially emphasize on restraint while dealing with young protesters, presence of cameras and keeping in mind the videos going viral on social media.
Don't argue with protesters
According to the Indian Express report, policemen have been asked to avoid engaging with the protesters, answering their questions or responding to emotional appeals. It has been said in the instructions that the anger of the policeman can be recorded on camera and become social media content for the protesters. The police have been advised not to succumb to provocation and play their role in a calm and professional manner.
Beware of emotional appeals
The guidelines also mention the possibility of emotional pressure being exerted on the part of the protesters. Protesters may cry, fall at the feet of policemen, or try to generate sympathy or anger by asking personal questions like family or salary. In such circumstances, policemen have been asked to maintain composure instead of giving emotional reactions.
Don't shout, don't snatch things
Policemen have been instructed neither to shout at the protesters, nor to snatch their belongings, nor to indulge in unnecessary arguments. Instead, it is advised to use calm language, such as—“Please cooperate, we are doing our duty.”
In the new instructions, there is special emphasis on the fact that in today's era, almost every incident in public places can be recorded on camera. Therefore, policemen have been asked to be careful about their facial expressions, body language and behavior.
Restraint even while giving flowers, tea or sweets
As per the guidelines, protesters can offer flowers, sweets, water or tea to policemen. In such a situation, policemen should keep their reaction restrained. The instructions state that they can politely accept or calmly refuse, but should avoid an angry reaction. The main objective of these new guidelines is said to be to control the public image of Delhi Police, law and order and police-protester confrontation during protests.
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