‘Why does the police kneel before politicians?’:Jitu Patwari writes open letter to MP’s police officers; asks about Preetam Lodhi controversy

In Madhya Pradesh politics, the issue of the “insult of the uniform” and an MLA’s “threat” has now taken the shape of a major agitation. In the case of Pritam Lodhi openly threatening an SDOP (an IPS officer), Congress leader Jitu Patwari has written an open letter addressed to the state’s police personnel. Incident of threatening IPS officer shook the nation
Jitu Patwari wrote in his letter to police personnel – Recently in Madhya Pradesh, the incident of BJP MLA Pritam Singh Lodhi threatening an IPS officer has shaken the entire country. This is not just a matter of one person’s language or behavior, but it is an indication of that dangerous atmosphere in which the arrogance of power is dominating over law and constitution. BJP leaders openly intimidate and insult police Patwari further wrote – I am writing this letter not just in reference to one incident, but keeping in mind that widespread situation where such instances repeatedly come to light where BJP leaders openly attempt to intimidate, pressure or humiliate police officers. Even more concerning than this is that after these incidents, the response of the police system often remains very limited, restrained and sometimes even silent. Asked police officers – why does the voice become subdued Patwari further wrote – I have a direct question for police officers that what exactly are those circumstances that have brought the country’s most trained, disciplined and courageous officers into a defensive posture? When there is a need to roar against injustice, why does your voice become subdued? When a common citizen is in front, how does the same system become so harsh and aggressive? Is it not true that when the police work impartially and within the framework of the Constitution, no leader or influential person has the courage to intimidate them, but when the same police appears to be protecting the immoral actions of the BJP government, then it has to face pressure and also endure humiliation. IPS Association’s letter shows more helplessness than outrage
Patwari further wrote – I have also read the IPS Association’s letter. That letter shows less outrage and more helplessness. This is not the voice of a strong and self-respecting institution, but rather appears to be an appeal from a system that is under pressure from within. This situation is dangerous not only for the police, but for the entire democracy. Because if the law enforcement agency itself appears helpless, then on whom will the common citizen’s trust rest? I also want to clarify that this letter is not against police personnel. Millions of police officers in the country work day and night risking their lives, and the entire nation salutes their dedication and courage. This letter is against those circumstances that are taking you away from your fundamental role. Raising Voice Against Injustice is the Police’s Responsibility I request you to remember that courage within you, which made you wear this uniform. Consider the Constitution as your greatest protector, not any government or individual. Raising voice against injustice, no matter from which side it comes, is your greatest responsibility. If the police itself becomes fearful, if the police itself falls silent, then the rule of law will remain merely an imagination. The time has come for you to become your own voice. Because when those who protect the law become silent, injustice begins to speak. I hope you will view this message not as criticism, but as the concern and expectation of a responsible citizen. The Story from Karera Accident to ‘Apology Letters’