Actions Against Police -know Your Civil Rights

Police forces are responsible government bodies that shoulder the responsibility of maintaining law and order. Police officers are watchdogs that ensure that the crime rate is kept under check, so that there is peace, amity and so that innocent citizens are able to lead a secure and carefree life.

However in many cases, it has been observed that law enforcers become lawbreakers. There have been instances where police officers wrongly use their powers, causing a great deal of nuisance to the general public. More often than not, the distressed party does not file a complaint out of fear. However, it should be noted that police misconduct should be reported to the respective authority to ensure that appropriate actions against police are taken, and they are not let loose.

Police officials are law enforcers and they should ensure that they behave in the right fashion. Misconduct on the part of even one individual police official would inflict a bad repute on the entire police force and they would be viewed in a poor light. Many private agencies carry out sting operations wherein misbehaviour of police officials has been exposed. The Government also encourages citizens to report cases of harassment, misconduct and bribes, so that these officials are taught a good lesson.

With the 9/11 attacks, laws have become tougher and stringent so that citizens can lead a peaceful life. Many of these police officers are taking undue advantage of their position and power. Police brutality is on the rise and in many cases there is enough evidence about this. Disciplinary actions have been taken against police who have violated civil rights and they have been convicted.

Police abuse has always been a cause for concern and thanks to the consciousness amongst the general public about their civil rights, actions against police are being taken more seriously by the authorities. Police officials, who consider themselves to be public masters and feel they are a step above the law, are now being dealt with strongly.
Negligence on the part of the authorities to take stern action against abusive officers is also being addressed, thanks to the sting operations. These operations are also exposing the people higher up in the rank for not being able to control their subordinates. When authorities are seen by the public as being mute spectators to the wrong doings of the people under them, it leads to a feeling of distrust and fear, which cannot be allowed to develop.
Every citizen needs to be treated with respect and dignity. If you feel that you are not being treated well, there is every reason for you to speak to your lawyer and also file a case against the person concerned to get justice. It is important for people to know that they need not suffer any atrocities from the police and can get due justice if they are bold enough to report the matter to the right authorities.

From the citizen's perspective, it is important for them to maintain calm and not become aggressive when dealing with any police atrocity.