Police Impunity in India: An Ongoing Crisis and Call for Reforms

The case in Tamil Nadu, where a father and son were tortured to death by the police, has once again brought to light the concerning issue of police impunity in India. This is not a standalone incident; it is part of a larger systemic problem that affects people across the country, regardless of their social status.

Systemic Issues and Social Norms

India's police force reflects the values and norms of the larger society. The poor and those belonging to lower castes are often subject to harsh treatment, while people from privileged backgrounds receive preferential treatment. This is evident even in educational settings, where kindergarten teachers have been known to physically abuse and isolate children from lower castes.

To address this, it is imperative to invest in comprehensive education and training programs for both police officers and teachers. However, the reality is that India has a subpar education system that fails to develop emotional and social intelligence (EQ) in individuals. Without these improvements, it is challenging to change the entrenched attitudes and behaviors.

Impunity and Media Scrutiny

While the brutal treatment of the father and son in Tamil Nadu has garnered media attention, it does not necessarily mean that such incidents go unpunished. In fact, the media plays a crucial role in bringing such cases to public light and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. However, this is a symptom of a larger issue, as the police are often seen getting away with murder.

A recent incident in Hyderabad further underscores the problem. In this case, the law enforcement involved was not only not punished but rather praised by the general public and celebrities. This normalization of police violence, and even its celebration, indicates a deeper societal issue that needs to be addressed.

Addressing the Root Causes

While it is tempting to blame the entire police force for such incidents, it is important to differentiate between rogue officers and systemic failures. The case of the Tamil Nadu father and son highlights how poor individuals are often targeted, not for any substantial reason, but as a form of retribution for talking back to the police.

The problem extends beyond Tamil Nadu. It is a pan-India issue that requires comprehensive reforms. The police encounter provision, which often results in extrajudicial killings, is a major concern that needs serious attention. The day such abuses cease and become rare will mark a significant turning point in India's struggle for justice.

Legal and judicial systems must become more robust to ensure accountability. The failure of multiple institutions, from law enforcement to the medical and judicial systems, in the case of the father and son in question, further emphasizes the need for systemic reforms.

It is not enough to blame a few rogue officers. The entire system must be reformed, and politicians must be pressured to implement the changes mandated by the Supreme Court. Until this happens, incidents like the one in Tamil Nadu will continue to occur, posing a severe challenge to the rule of law and social justice in India.

In conclusion, the issue of police impunity is a complex one that requires a multifaceted approach. It is not an isolated event but a broader societal issue that demands the attention and active participation of every individual and institution. It is our responsibility to hold authorities accountable and to demand change that ensures justice for all, irrespective of their social status.