Gurugram: Haryana Director General of Police (DGP) O.P. Singh has called for a shift in policing strategy in Gurugram and other “magnet cities,” urging officers to adopt empathetic, respectful, and innovative approaches to tackle issues such as drunken driving and nightlife-related challenges.
Speaking to reporters after a review meeting with senior police officers in Gurugram, the DGP emphasized that policing must balance law enforcement with dignity and respect, especially in cities that attract young professionals and vibrant nightlife.
‘Don’t Humiliate Anyone’: A Call for Dignified Enforcement
DGP O.P. Singh suggested out-of-the-box ideas to curb drunken driving “without humiliating anyone.”
“For example, talk to the restaurant owner. If there are four people in a group, they could serve only three; so the fourth won’t drink,” he said.
“Or the owner could tell them – if all four have had drinks, take an Uber. The police can even coordinate with restaurants to ensure drunk patrons get home safely instead of being harassed at checkpoints,” he added.
He noted that while drunken driving is “unforgivable”, the approach to enforcement must be humane and non-confrontational.
‘Gurugram Is a Magnet City’
Calling Gurugram a “Magnet City” like Amsterdam, Singapore, or Hong Kong, the DGP said such cities thrive on energy, youth, and single working populations.
“Many single men and women working here have no family; their friends are their family. When they finish work on Friday, they go out – this happens globally. So please, don’t harass them when they are returning,” he said.
He urged officers to avoid excessive barricading and traffic jams, and instead explore smarter solutions like real-time surveillance, technology integration, and partnership with nightlife businesses.
‘Politeness Earns Respect, Not Weakness’
During his first official visit as DGP to Gurugram, O.P. Singh underscored the need for Haryana Police to redefine its public image through courtesy, empathy, and professionalism.
“My message was simple but firm – we must change the way people experience policing. Every officer on the field represents the entire force,” he said.
“When you stop a vehicle for checking, begin with courtesy: ‘I’m sorry sir/ma’am, we have to stop you for checking.’ After conducting checks, thank them for their cooperation. These small gestures will humanise policing.”
He added that politeness does not make police weak – it earns respect.
Partnering With Nightlife Businesses
Recognizing the unique challenges posed by Gurugram’s nightlife, Singh said he had directed the Police Commissioner to work closely with club and restaurant owners.
“If people are drinking, establishments must take responsibility to ensure they are not driving. Similarly, police shouldn’t harass people leaving clubs at night. Instead, hold establishments accountable for ensuring safe transport,” he said.
He revealed that notices under Section 168 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita are being issued to errant outlets, empowering police to act before a cognisable offence occurs.
Towards a New Era of Citizen-Friendly Policing
The Haryana DGP’s comments reflect a broader vision for modern, empathetic policing in urban centers like Gurugram – one that focuses equally on law enforcement and community trust-building.
“Sometimes solutions are bigger problems than the actual problems,” Mr Singh remarked, urging officers to rethink traditional methods and “be part of the city’s vibrancy, not its disruption.”
