Many among the public now came to know that there is a section 86 (3) of the Police Act, under which police officers can be dismissed for committing grave crimes. Perhaps the government itself fully understood the relevance of this section now. The government relied on section 86 (3) of the Police Act to dismiss circle inspector P R Sunu, who continued in service despite committing a series of crimes in police uniform. Sunu, terminated from service, was accused in many criminal cases including rape. Even though there are provisions to dismiss cops engaged in regular crimes, the government had not yet taken such a step. Only those convicted by courts were dismissed from service. Four were terminated in this way last year. P R Sunu is the first cop in the state to be terminated under the law. Let's hope the tough action taken against Sunu is a welcome start.

This is a strong warning to other criminals still in service. No administration can tolerate the intrusion of criminals into the police force, which is responsible for protecting the lives and property of the people. It is not only the force that these people tarnish. A few such people are enough to stain the image of the government. The government itself had released a shocking figure that 828 people who have been accused in criminal cases, are still in the force. The law is equally applicable to all. However, those committing crimes in khaki often do not fall under the law. However, if at all involved in crimes, there will be extensive provisions to save them. When there are custodial deaths, the people often see the dramas that take place to save the accused. When it is the police who have to take action against the guilty policemen, the law and the department often stand aside. Only if the violations by law enforcement officers are seen more seriously, changes could be brought in their attitudes. Organizational strength and political relationship often help the criminal police officers.

Over the course of three-quarters of a century, there have been many changes in the approach and methods of police. However, the common people are still scared of the police. This is because they are willing to do many illegal things. There is truth in saying that the ‘impartiality’ of the police is biased. That is why many innocent people are suffering in lockups. There are no drop-in third-degree methods even after warned. It would be nice if the termination of inspector Sunu is a good beginning of cleansing. Let this be a lesson to those who misuse power and criminal offenders.