3.
Regulation, Control and Discipline of the Police Force
Chapter lll of the Maharashtra Police Act, 1951 details the regulation, control, and
discipline of the police force. Here's a summary of the relevant sections:
(1) Section 23: Framing of Rules for Police Administration
The Commissioner or Inspector-General, depending on their jurisdiction, is empowered to
make rules,subject to State Government approval. These rules can govern:
Inspection of the police force.
Provision of arms, clothing, and necessary supplies.
Residence of police officers.
Management of police funds.
Distribution, movement, and duties of police oficers.
discipline of the police force. Here's a summary of the relevant sections:
(1)Section 23: Framing of Rules for Police Administration
The Commissioner or Inspector-General, depending on their jurisdiction, is empowered to
make rules,subject to State Government approval. These rules can govem:
Inspection of the police force.
Provision of arms, clothing, and necessary supplies.
Residence of police officers.
Management of police funds.
Distribution, movement, and duties of police officers.
Collection and communication of intelligence.
(2) Section 24: Calling for Returns
The Inspector-General or Commissioner can call for reports, returns, and statements
related to the suppression of crime, maintaining order, and the duties of subordinates.
This information is shared with the District Magistrate and other relevant officials.
(3) Section 25: Punishment of Subordinate Police Officers
The State Government or authorized officers can suspend, reduce, dismiss, or fine police
officers for neglect of duty or misconduct. Specific officers such as the Inspector-General,
Commissioner, and Deputy Inspector-General have authority to discipline subordinate
police officers, including the power to suspend them pending inquiry.
(4) Section 26: Procedure for Awarding Punishment
Any punishment involving suspension, reduction, or dismissal of a police officer must be
recorded in writing, along with the reasons for such action. Officers must be given an
opportunity to explain themselves before severe actions are taken, except in exti
cases.
(5) Section 27: Appeals Against Punishments
Police officers can appeal against disciplinary actions. The appeals are directed to the
State Government or other authorized officers, and the decisions can be reviewed to
ensure they comply with legal and procedural standards.
(6) Section 28: Always on Duty
Police officers are considered to be always on duty unless on leave or suspension. The
State Government or Inspector-General can transfer officers to any part of the state as
needed for policing duties.
(7) Section 29: Resignation of Police Officers
Police officers cannot resignor withdraw from duty without written permission from the
relevant authorities. Officers must clear any debts to the government or police funds
before resigning, and if deemed unfit for service due to illness or incapacity, permission
to resign will be granted.
(8) Section 30: Surrender of Equipment
When a police officer leaves service, they must return all equipment provided to them. If
they fail todo so, asearch warrant may be issued to recover the items.
(9) Section 31: Vacating Premises
Police officers must vacate any government-provided housing when they leave the force
or when asked to do so by the government. If they fail to vacate, they may be forcibly
removed.
(10) Section 32: State Government Orders
The State Government can issue orders that extend powers similar to those granted under
Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1898,to ensure public safety and order.
