DGP's circular; People under influence of drugs to be taken to hospital, not station, for assessment

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: DGP issued a circular stating that individuals causing problems due to drug use should not be taken directly to the police station upon being taken into custody. Instead, the Station House Officer (SHO) should promptly escort such individuals to the hospital for immediate assessment of their health condition by a doctor. This new directive is based on a report prepared by the AIG of the police headquarters, incorporating suggestions from various districts.

While at the hospital, individuals in custody should not be allowed to roam freely unless specifically instructed by medical personnel. They should only be released after completing all necessary procedures. Previous guidelines emphasized the importance of identifying in advance whether the accused had used drugs and might pose a risk of violence during medical examination.

Furthermore, it is imperative to ensure that detainees are not carrying any weapons, drugs, alcohol or harmful substances on their person or clothing. If there are concerns about potential violence, the attending doctor should be notified immediately and police intervention should be swift if any violent behavior occurs.

A recent incident at Kottarakkara Taluka Hospital, where a doctor was stabbed during a police-escorted medical examination highlighted the critical need for these precautions.

When appearing before a Magistrate, individuals should not be handcuffed unless specifically instructed by the judicial officer. Additionally, all police actions should be recorded on video. Police officers should be equipped with necessary gear, such as breathalyzers, handcuffs, helmets and riot shields, to safely manage individuals displaying aggressive behaviour. Prior to arrival, hospital authorities and doctors must be informed about the individual's injuries, overall health, mental state and any potential risks they may pose.