Mamool: DGP Tripathy warns of strict action

The circular warning criminal action and disciplinary proceeding against those collecting mamool was issued based on an order of the Madurai bench of Madras High Court on mamool.

“Mamool collection shall be treated as a serious offence and hence punishment imposed for the proved charges under the disciplinary and appeal rules must be in commensuration with the gravity of the charges. There shall not be a leniency or misplaced sympathy in dealing with the such nature of cases of mamool collection and demand and acceptance of bribe,” DGP Tripathy said in the circular.

The court has observed that the menace of mamool collection, more specifically by the police officials in various places across the State, are of great concern of the public at large. Mostly, it is visible that such mamool collection are made by those police officials both in the local police station as well as National Highways, busy marketplaces and other shops. The police officers are receiving freebies from restaurants, shops, and thereby behaving unbecoming of a public servant and committing not only misconduct under the discipline and appeal rule but also committing offences warranting prosecution under criminal law, said the circular quoting the HC order.

Collection of mamool is punishable under the Prevention of Corruption Act / Indian Penal Code, as the act is nothing but demand and acceptance of bribe. Those collecting mamool or taking bribe shall be booked under Prevention of Corruption Act, the DGP noted in the order.

Whenever such incident comes to light or identified or prima facie materials are available, then the competent authorities of the DVAC or police officials are duty bound to register cases under the relevant statutory provisions.

DGP has also asked all unit officers to conduct surprise checks to ensure the strict enforcement of the instructions in the circular.