The intentions expressed by JK Government to increase the strength of Tourist Police Officers ought to be well received. A dedicated tourist police unit will save many occasions when the intervention of regular police officers result in awkward and disquieting situations. In the last few years a number of reports about disputes between travellers/tourists and the regional hosts or service providers have come to the fore. In the absence of adequate number of tourist police officers the matters are either dropped for the indisposition to involve regular police and follow lengthy procedures and protocols or in extreme cases the complainants make the dash to the nearest tourism office only to find that quick action is not possible. The tourist’s circuit in the valley has been increasing with the addition of new getaways and recreational spots. This in turn has led to a large number of locals engaged in providing amenities and services. It does happen that some profiteers venture in such situations and to make a quick buck get involved in unfair practices. At several popular tourist places, the travellers have been complaining about overcharging and inconvenience caused by the touts. For a cup of tea or snacks that have almost similar and fixed price all over, arbitrary prices are charged. It is not a matter of earning few extra bucks that we must take for granted that a good tourist would be willing to pay. Most travellers do not like the idea that someone cheats or exploits them. In many similar cases minor inconvenience suffered by the travellers that impact the overall experience are never reported. With adequate number of tourist police officers that are specially trained to handle sensitivities present at different places, on spot actions and grievances of the tourists can be taken good care of. It would be better if new recruitments and officers with special training to handle delicate situations are pursued by the state government instead of strengthening the tourist police unit with the regular police staff. With the present sanctioned strength at 106, out of which only 72 officers are serving with the remaining yet to be recruited, it is inadequate to deliver the intended services amidst growing number of tourists and new places put on the map. The protocols need to be different as these are not the regular law and order situations that cops know better as how to deal.
Posted on: Mon, 02 Sep 2013 11:17:31 +0000
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