Kindness and compassion behind the khaki

In the past, the public held many misconceptions about the police, and the police held similar misunderstandings about the public. Most believed that wearing a uniform meant there was no room for gentleness or humility. They were guided by the notion that a thick moustache, harsh language and an intimidating manner would enhance the dignity and authority of the police force. There was even a belief that suspects would confess only when they were threatened or intimidated. Many senior officers, too, silently encouraged such behaviour.

Physical strength was once considered an important quality for recruitment to the police force. Over time, however, a different approach began to take root. As more senior officers recognised that criminals could be dealt with through intelligence and strategy rather than physical force, the attitude also began to change among police personnel. The growing number of educated people joining the force further contributed to this transformation.

The use of third-degree methods and the cries of suspects from lock-ups had once made even genuine complainants hesitant to approach police stations. That perception has gradually changed. There is now a growing understanding that the police are not meant to be feared by ordinary citizens, but are a government institution responsible for protecting people and helping ensure justice. This has encouraged more people to approach the police without fear. Police officers work long hours, often under difficult conditions. Their workload has increased as the nature and scope of crime have expanded. There are also widespread complaints that they do not receive adequate recognition or benefits for the demands of their job. Yet there are many officers who understand that the police can earn the public's trust by helping people rather than intimidating them. Sub-Inspector T.B. Bibin of the Idukki police station is one such example.

Bibin has become a source of pride for the police force after his compassionate intervention helped save a middle-aged man who was on the verge of taking his own life on Uthradam, the day before Thiruvonam. His actions have also made him an Onam star on social media. At around 11.30 am on August 25, a native of Karthikayanikkavala in Thadiyampad, who had been working abroad, had an argument with his wife before locking himself inside a room. He put a rope around his neck and was preparing to end his life. Sensing that something was seriously wrong, his wife alerted the police control room. Bibin and his team reached the spot within minutes. The SI understood that force would not help in such a situation. Instead, he chose compassion. In a gentle and caring voice, he called out to the man: “Think of me as your son. Please remove the rope, brother.” Those few words made a difference. The man responded and was brought back from the brink. “He was ready to die. At that moment, I felt that was the right thing to say. My only aim was to save him,” Bibin said.

A calm voice and a compassionate approach achieved what force never could. One life was saved, and a family was spared a tragedy that could have left lasting consequences. Such acts not only help individuals in moments of crisis but also strengthen public trust in the police. This is the kind of policing that deserves recognition and encouragement from the authorities.

There have also been instances that show the damage caused when authority is exercised without restraint. Some time ago, a probationary SI at Chadayamangalam turned a routine helmet violation into a serious incident. The officer insisted that an elderly passenger travelling on the pillion of a two-wheeler be fined for not wearing a helmet. When the passenger refused, the officer allegedly slapped him and dragged him into a jeep by his legs. That officer was not even as old as Bibin. The contrast is telling. It is not age or physical strength but maturity, restraint and humanity that should guide those entrusted with protecting the public. May more police officers follow the path shown by Bibin.