Bhubaneswar: In a move aimed at reinforcing discipline and institutional participation, Y B Khurania, a 1990 batch Indian Police Service (IPS) Officer, has expressed displeasure over the repeated absence of senior IPS officers from official functions organised by Odisha Police in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.
Following concerns raised by the Director General of Police, the state police headquarters on Monday issued a formal communication to 36 IPS officers posted in the twin cities, directing them to remain present at all official events organised by different wings of Odisha Police.
Police headquarters issues formal directive
The letter, signed by Prateek Mohanty, Additional Director General (Headquarters), stated –
“It has been observed by DGP that many senior officers are not attending official functions organised by different verticals of Odisha police. It is, therefore, requested to make it convenient to attend the said official functions without fail.”
The communication underlined that attendance at official police events is expected unless prevented by unavoidable official engagements.
Exemption only with DGP approval
The directive clearly stated that officers unable to attend due to unavoidable duties must seek specific exemption directly from the DGP.
Officials indicated that this requirement is intended to ensure accountability and prior communication regarding absence from institutional events.
Certain wings kept outside directive
The order does not apply to IPS officers serving in –
- Odisha Vigilance
- Odisha Fire and Emergency Services
- Prisons Directorate Odisha
These departments are administratively separate from Odisha Police headquarters.
Absenteeism at Police Bhawan event triggered action
Police sources said the directive followed the DGP taking serious note of low attendance during a felicitation ceremony held at Police Bhawan on Monday.
The event was organised to honour sports personnel serving in Odisha Police who had performed exceptionally in national and state-level competitions and brought recognition to the force.
Focus on discipline and collective representation
A senior police officer said the move should not be viewed merely as an administrative order but as an effort to strengthen collective institutional culture.
According to officials, the DGP wants senior officers to actively participate in official gatherings so that such events receive due importance and morale within the force remains high.
“Active participation by officers helps make official programmes meaningful and reflects institutional unity,” a senior officer said.
Institutional messaging through attendance
Police officials noted that attendance by senior officers at departmental events is considered important for maintaining morale, encouraging junior personnel and projecting leadership within the force.
The latest directive is being seen as part of broader efforts by the Odisha Police leadership to reinforce discipline, visibility and internal cohesion.
