Docs, techies, MBAs join as constables in Punjab

The long-standing images of cane-wielding, pot-bellied constables of the Punjab Police are all set for a pleasant change, at least given the profiles of youths who are now joining the force even at the lowest hierarchy.

Several professionals, including doctors, IT graduates, engineers, MBAs and law graduates have preferred to join the force as constables. An applicant desirous of being a constable needs an authentic 10+2 certificate as a pre-requisite.

What came to the fore at the end of a recent recruitment rally in Punjab surprised many.  More than three dozen constable aspirants have MA degrees, five of them are MBAs, some are doctors and four have MCA degrees. Six are qualified engineers. Nearly a dozen hold post graduate degrees in information technology and science.

Another 15 are qualified enough to teach at schools since they hold master’s degrees in education. After successful completion of their training at Punjab Police Academy near Jalandhar in Punjab, they will be eligible to don the khakhi uniform beginning their career as constables.

Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Human Resource Development and Community Policing S K Sharma said the developments were encouraging and would improve the functioning of the police department. Some chartered accountants, too, have opted to join the force.

 According to sources, many of the new recruits are from wealthy families. One of them is Baljit Singh, a youth from Moga with a bachelor of science degree, whose father owns 22 acres.

The recruitment for these posts was carried out after a long gap. About 1,191 recruits were given training at the centre. ADGP, Administration, Punjab, M K Tiwari said: “Policing has changed over the years and the assignments are diverse in nature. The police also require professionally qualified administrators, managers to look after human resource and people with better understanding of IT, electronics and communication.”

 Sources said an entrant to the post would get about Rs 30,000 to start with.