On-duty cops to face action if caught smoking in public

New Delhi: Delhi Police officials with a habit of smoking will soon face departmental action if they get caught taking a puff in public places while on duty.

Adhering to court orders, in its first circular issued this year, Delhi Police stated, "It is reiterated that no police official will smoke at any public place and if found doing so he not only be prosecuted but further disciplinary/ departmental action be taken against him."

"Incidents of police officers smoking in public have come to notice all around. Such type of incidents tarnish the image of police. Such only act of police official in public not only does embarrassment to the authority but also sends a wrong message to the public at large," the circular said.

The circular was issued from the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Headquarters) on Wednesday, following instructions from Delhi Police Commissioner B S Bassi.

The circular further said: "The conduct of a policeman should be exemplary and should encourage to follow the law. "These instructions be followed in letter and spirit," it read.

Further clarifying on the circular, a senior official said that the instruction applies only when the official is on duty. In other times, he/she is only to face prosecution as per court orders.