The Assam police department has issued a strict order to its personnel to lose weight and improve their fitness within six months or face disciplinary action. The order, issued by the director general of police (DGP) Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta on Monday, said that overweight cops will not be considered for promotion, transfer or foreign assignments.
The order came after a recent survey conducted by the department revealed that more than 40% of the police personnel in the state are obese or overweight. The survey also found that many cops suffer from lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiac problems.
The DGP said that the fitness of the police personnel is crucial for their performance and efficiency. He said that overweight cops not only compromise their own health but also tarnish the image of the department. He urged the cops to adopt a healthy diet and exercise regime and shed the extra kilos.
The order said that the cops will have to undergo a physical fitness test after six months and those who fail to meet the prescribed standards will face action. The order also said that the cops will have to submit a monthly report on their weight loss progress to their respective units.
The order has received mixed reactions from the police personnel. Some welcomed it as a positive step to improve their health and morale, while others felt that it was unfair and impractical. Some also expressed concern over the lack of facilities and time for exercise in their busy schedules.
The Assam police department has over 70,000 personnel, including officers and constables. It is one of the largest and most diverse police forces in the country, dealing with various challenges such as insurgency, terrorism, crime and law and order.