Question

Identify the correct principles of policing from the statement below:
A. To investigate, detect and activate the prosecution of offences
B. To demean liberty, equality and fraternity in human affair
C. To uphold and protect human rights
D. To curb movements on highways and facilitate public disorder
E. To strengthen the security of persons and property
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B & C Only
• B. A, C & E Only
• C. B, C & D Only
• D. A, D & E Only

Hint:

The legitimacy of police in a democracy depends heavily on respect for human rights and public trust.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Concept:

• Policing is a civil function of the State intended to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of citizens.
• Modern policing principles shift from a "force" mentality to a "service" mentality, emphasizing the protection of constitutional rights.
• The Model Police Act and various police reform committees (like the Padmanabhaiah Committee) outline these core duties.

Step 1: Analyze the primary law enforcement function
The primary duty of the police is to investigate crimes, detect the perpetrators, and initiate legal proceedings (prosecution) in a court of law. This ensures that the rule of law is maintained. Thus, A is a correct principle.

Step 2: Evaluate the social and constitutional values
Police are meant to be guardians of the Constitution. Statement B suggests "demeaning" values like Liberty and Equality, which is the opposite of a police officer's oath. Statement C correctly identifies that they must uphold and protect human rights. Thus, B is incorrect and C is correct.

Step 3: Analyze public order and security duties
Police are tasked with *preventing* public disorder, not "facilitating" it as suggested in statement D. Their objective on highways is to ensure the smooth flow of traffic and prevent crimes. Statement E correctly identifies that their ultimate goal is the security of people and their property. Thus, D is incorrect and E is correct.

Step 4: Final Selection
Combining the correct statements A, C, and E, we find that option (B) is the correct choice.