Policemen scurry for jobs in Gulf, on ships

Policemen scurry for jobs in Gulf, on ships
Preetu Nair, TNN

PANAJI: This is perhaps what they mean when they say ‘eat your cake and have it too’. The state police is witnessing an increasing trend of its
personnel, mostly constables, going on long sabbaticals, thanks to the state’s extraordinary leave scheme which gives government officials the opportunity to stay away from work for up to five years and take up employment elsewhere.

In 2008, 15 policemen were granted extraordinary leave - a huge jump from the earlier annual average of about five officers. Most of them took up jobs abroad or onboard ships.

Says SP (PRO) Atmaram Deshpande, “Many avail of the scheme as their police training and field experience gets them high paying jobs as security or vigilance officers on cruise liners or in Gulf countries.” Former SP Alex Rasquinha explains the reason behind the phenomenon, “Not only is a policeman’s salary low, but many, after a few years of service end up with a battered morale as only those with political influence get good postings. Salaries after the Sixth Pay Commission recommendations are better, but the feeling of not getting anywhere in the force is increasing.”

Records reveal that a majority of the policemen seeking such leave are constables. There are few cases of police sub-inspectors and a lone police inspector seeking extraordinary leave.

3 Apr 2009, The Times of India, Goa edition