The case of Head Constable Tukaram Shirodkar who allegedly attempted self-harm has shed a harsh light on an "out of focus" reality – the fragile mental health of those who are designated to safeguard lives. Despite the swift response of the North Goa police, the incident raises critical questions about the department's timely interventions in addressing the psychological well-being of its members.
The incident is another stark reminder of the mental toll policing takes on the men in khaki. The stress of handling high-pressure situations, the constant threat of violence, and the weight of public expectations are often taking a toll. Add to this the pressure of demanding schedules, particularly during peak periods. The stress could also be due to factors outside the work environment, such as policemen carrying their personal baggage. The bottom line, whatever the circumstances, is that stress can manifest in extreme behaviour.
Low-ranking policemen alleging harassment that leads them to extreme steps of ending their lives beats hollow the success of internal counselling mechanisms. The tragic case of IRB constable Prathamesh Gawade, who took his life two months ago jumping off the Zuari bridge after shooting a video blaming harassment by fellow officers highlights the crisis faced. The fact that Gawade and Shirodkar both chose to record video messages before taking drastic steps points to one bitter reality -- of a systemic failure. These individuals did not seek help until it was too late, indicating that the department's efforts to support mental health may not be reaching those who need it most.
Retired officers, who have spent their careers witnessing the impact of policing on mental health, agree that the situation demands attention. They point out the need to revive old grievance-hearing systems, ensuring that feedback from subordinate staff is actively sought and addressed. Police staff need an alternative redressal system so that those distressed can be heard at a different level.
The department's response to the crisis, while timely, is inadequate. The internal inquiry initiated by North Goa SP Akshat Kaushal is a step in the right direction, but the findings must be acted upon firmly and action against those responsible has to be swift and decisive.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant recently launched two initiatives aimed at improving the physical and psychological health of Goa Police personnel named ‘Manas Mentors' and ‘Swasth Police Sashakth Police’ to support the well-being of police officers by addressing both mental health and physical fitness. The ‘Swasth Police Sashakth Police’ campaign was introduced as a year-long project to screen police personnel on various health parameters. These are undoubtedly positive initiatives, however, we must also admit that there can't be a stress-free environment no matter the systems in force. Since mental toughness is a crucial part of policing, there is a need for frequent evaluation.
These brave individuals who wear their uniforms with pride are human beings and are bound to have vulnerabilities, too. The solution lies in fostering a culture of open communication, empathy, and support within the department. The Shirodkar case serves as another grim reminder that the well-being of the police force is crucial for its effective functioning. Instead of projecting "all is in place" it's time the leadership takes a critical view of the grey areas and restores the confidence of those "giving up".
