NEW DELHI: The Police Act Drafting Committee is likely to suggest that an independent police complaints commission be formed to hear complaints against police officers, on the lines of the one in the United Kingdom.

The committee was formed under the Union Ministry of Home Affairs in September last to draft a new Police Act to replace the 1861 Act. It was given six months to prepare a draft Act but got an extension of two months. It is likely to submit its recommendations by May end.

Its Member-Secretary U.N.B. Rao said, "We want to raise the morale of the police and simultaneously check the possibility of them abusing their powers."

The former Delhi Police Commissioner, Ajai Raj Sharma, who is a member of the committee, said the panel favoured a fixed tenure for the posts of Director-General of Police, Superintendent of Police and Station House Officer.

The committee is likely to suggest measures to prevent "punishment transfers" until an allegation of misconduct is proved against the officer concerned. This is aimed at providing an element of stability to the police service.

Possible obstacle

An obstacle that could crop up is reluctance from State Governments to accept the recommendations of the committee on the ground that the panel comes under the Union Home Ministry when law and order is on the State List.

However, committee members are hopeful that State Governments will adopt the recommendations as the panel has taken into account the existing legislation in various States.

"There is also a point of view within and outside the Government that "police" should be put on the Concurrent List," said Mr. Sharma.

Separating functions

The members are, by and large, in agreement with separating the law and order functions of the police from the investigation process.

The committee will also recommend changes in the criminal law. It includes suggestions that will deal with witness protection and amendments to the Cr PC and the Indian Evidence Act.

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