Weekly-off for Khanna cops

Ludhiana: In a welfare measure aimed at reducing work stress among police personnel, the Khanna police district has introduced a weekly off-day system. The initiative, which came into effect on Thursday, has been rolled out following an order issued by Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dr. Darpan Ahluwalia. As per a police official, the development is a major relief for police personnel who often work long and irregular hours. According to the SSP's order, the move is in compliance with directions issued by the Director General of Police, Punjab, on August 8, 2003, regarding the provision of a weekly day off to help reduce workload and improve the mental well-being of police staff.Police station heads have been directed to ensure that personnel under their command are given one day off each week. Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP)-rank officers will oversee the implementation of the system in other police units. However, the order clarifies that the weekly off will not be treated as a formal holiday or leave. Personnel availing the off will remain stationed at their place of posting and can be called back to duty in case of emergencies. As per police officials, Khanna police district has eight police stations, and rosters for weekly offs have already been prepared. They added that personnel will be eligible for four off days in a month, subject to operational requirements. The SSP also directed station house officers (SHOs) to ensure that adequate manpower is available at all times.