In an effort to enhance police performance and improve the welfare of personnel, a proposal has been submitted to the Karnataka Police Department seeking the appointment of professional psychiatric social workers across police units to address the growing mental health needs of police personnel.

In a communication addressed to the State police leadership, Mohan Kumar Danappa, Member of the Karnataka State Police Complaints Authority, highlighted the need for dedicated mental health services within the police force. The letter noted that while the department has been giving considerable attention to the physical health of personnel, there remains a shortage of qualified professional resources to provide psychological and mental health support.

The proposal draws attention to findings and observations made by mental health institutions, including the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), as well as other research organisations, which have underscored the increasing importance of psychological well-being among police personnel owing to the stressful and demanding nature of their duties.

According to the communication, the appointment of professional psychiatric social workers would help police personnel cope more effectively with occupational stress, improve overall well-being, reduce health-related expenditure, and minimise the loss of manpower resulting from mental health challenges.

The recommendation calls for the deployment of such professionals in all district police offices, commissionerates, armed police units, police training institutions, and other police establishments across Karnataka. The proposal is also understood to have received support through a representation submitted by the State Committee of the Police Welfare Association in Bengaluru.

The matter has been placed before the competent authorities for consideration and necessary action. It may be recalled that the city police have appointed welfare officials to provide necessary support and help for the police personnel required physiological and psychological help.