Workload, political pressure, harrassment; Rising number of police officers opt for VRS in Kerala

KOCHI: A growing number of police officers in Kerala are opting for voluntary retirement (VRS) due to workload, political pressure and harassment by superior officers. So far this year, 72 policemen, ranging from Constable Police Officers (CPOs) to Sub-Inspectors (SIs), have applied for VRS.

The highest number of applications this year has come from Kottayam with 11 officers, followed closely by Kollam with 10. The trend is consistent with previous years, as Kottayam also saw the highest number of VRS applications in 2023, with 15 officers opting out of service. From 2019 to 2023, a total of 158 police officers have taken VRS in the state.

The reasons for seeking VRS vary, including heavy workload, denial of leave, a state of restlessness, political pressure, family issues, health problems and harassment by superiors. The rule stipulates that VRS should be processed within three months of receiving the application. During this period, from the Station House Officer (SHO) to the Commissioner, the applicant is called for discussions to address their concerns and potentially dissuade them from leaving.

Applications for VRS this year

- Kottayam: 11

- Kollam: 10

- Thrissur and Ernakulam: 9 each

- Idukki: 7

- Alappuzha: 6

- Palakkad and Malappuram: 5 each

- Thiruvananthapuram and Pathanamthitta: 3 each

- Kozhikode and Kannur: 2 each