Take part in CM’s blood camp and get 2-day leave, cops told

According to sources, all Armed Reserve (AR) and Tamil Nadu Special Police (TNSP) battalions have been asked to make sure at least 60 personnel from each unit participate in the state-wide show, while all law and order sub division (a jurisdiction limit of a deputy superintendent of police) are told to mobilise a minimum of 25 people for donating blood.

Though those aged below 40 years and willing to donate blood are supposed to participate in the mega camp, many in the AR and TSP battalions alleged pressure from the top to make participation mandatory.

All officers are supposed to encourage their constabulary to participate in the blood donation drive. In every district, the officers are now co-ordinating with the doctors at the government general hospitals to make arrangements for the event. Even trainees at police training schools are asked to participate in the camp.

In Chennai, the mega camp is scheduled to take place in RR stadium on Friday in the presence of the chief minister.

“Already more than 500 AR personnel – of the total 6,000 plus strength from Chennai – have come forward to donate blood. Only those who volunteer for the donation are enrolled. Nobody is forced to take part,” a senior police official maintained.

When asked if the donors would be given any incentive, the officer said they would get two days rest.

“When we ask leave for serious matters at home, our officers hesitate to give us leave. But now they are offering leave for this, just to show strength,” complained an AR constable from Vellore.