‘Even when I was in police force, used to call officers ‘poda pulle’

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Former DGP and BJP leader R Sreelekha responded to criticism on her controversial slogan ‘poda pulle police’ by defending her stand in a Facebook post. She stepped forward with an explanation again after the criticism intensified, including on social media. Sreelekha wrote on Facebook that even when she was in the force, she had often called police officers committing mistakes ‘poda pulle’ to their faces. Many police officers who committed serious mistakes and corruption have been suspended from service. Some have been dismissed. Many police officers have been convicted in corruption cases. No political or police association leader has said anything against me since then. So, Sreelekha asks, do they all find it wrong to call someone who commits such mistakes ‘poda’.

Her FB Post
She said that even during her time in the police force, she had directly confronted erring officers using similar harsh language. According to her, she had taken strict action against many police personnel involved in serious misconduct and corruption-- including suspensions, dismissals, and legal cases. She pointed that at that time, neither political leaders nor police association members had raised objections against her behavior.

Sreelekha questioned why, after her retirement, people are now criticizing her for using such words against a police officer who allegedly committed wrongdoing. She also welcomed the reported action of asking the SHO of Vattiyoorkavu to go on leave.

She thanked the DGP and Police Commissioner.