Pune: Concerns for their families at home and long hours are a few of the stress points experienced by cops, resulting from the effects of the pandemic across India as per the research report ‘Godrej Locks ‘Har Ghar Surakshit Report 2020: Safety Insights from India’s Police Force’.
The research was conducted with cops from across 12 major cities in India. One of the critical points revealed was that 47 per cent of police officers are concerned about the health and wellbeing of their family, while they are on duty.
Police officials believe that their families face increased risks from the pandemic as a direct consequence of their job. Nearly a third (30 per cent) believe that exposure to potentially infected members of the public to be a considerable risk.
According to the data, the ongoing pandemic has increased worries of cops concerning their family’s safety and protection. 59 per cent cops cite long hours spent away from home during periods of lock down as a cause of worry. 57 per cent cops also find long periods of confinement and 46 per cent cops believe more work and responsibilities as major triggers of distress during the pandemic.
The research, however, revealed more positive sentiments when it came to public perception of the police service; in many instances, as a direct consequence of the virus. 65 per cent cops believe that the ‘image’ of India’s police force has improved over the last few months; 82 per cent believe that this is a result of their presence and visibility during the COVID-19 crisis, 63 per cent police officials cite increased interaction with the public, and 62 per cent refer to increased police patrols contributing to this improved perception.
Shyam Motwani, Executive Vice-President and Business Head, Godrej Locks, described the findings as a timely reminder of the professionals – husbands, wives, sons and daughters – diligently patrolling and protecting the public in these unprecedented times.
“Maintaining the health and security of the nation is always a combination of personal responsibility and authorities entrusted with safeguarding our wellbeing. The research highlights – not just the inevitable stress that the pandemic has placed on our police force – but the public’s recognition of their extraordinary dedication in terms of improved perception levels,” he said.
According to the data, 41 per cent of police officers presently felt ‘very proud’ of their teams, and 27 per cent felt ‘appreciated’ by the general public.