HAVERI: Defying DGP Praveen Sood’s recent direction to police officers not to allow any private functions at police stations, especially with anti-social elements, Bankapur PSI Santosh Patil celebrated his birthday with rowdy-sheeters in the station on Tuesday. After photos of his celebration viral, he was placed under suspension on Thursday.
Sood had given the direction as incidents of police officers participating in parties with anti-social elements is affecting the reputation of the force.
In the viral video, some rowdy sheeters are seen feeding cake to Patil. During the celebration, many residents and youngsters offered Patil books and garlands at his chamber I the presence of his family members.
The event was later circulated on social media and drew huge criticism against police, accusing them of not practicing what they enforce. The video also reached the SP and IGP.
Probe is on
SP Hanumantharaya said, “We have suspended PSI Santosh Patil after allegations were raised. We are conducting a probe into the matter. The DGP has restricted private celebrations in the police station and police officers shouldn’t participate in private celebrations especially organised by anti-social elements.”
“I celebrated my birthday in a gurukul with students at Bisanalli on NH-48, and not at the police station. People wished me on my birthday when they had come to the station for inquiry,” Patil clarified.
A senior police officer said, “All police officers have the responsibility of preventing crime and maintaining law and order in society. Patil’s action and behaviour in uniform is a reflection of the entire department and society. Police officers must be told not to have any kind of relationship with anti-social elements and no celebrations including birthday parties, wedding anniversaries or any private function should be held at police stations.”
