POLICE SHOULD HAVE A SECURE IMAGE - ALLAHABAD HC

The Allahabad High Court recently held that police should have a secure image, and there is no absolute right under Article 25 for police personnel to keep a beard. The court held this while dismissing a petition filed by Mohammed Farman, an Uttar Pradesh police officer claiming the fundamental right to maintain a beard.

The Petitioner filed two pleas. He first challenged the circular issued in October 2020 by the Director-General of Police, UP, that laid down certain guidelines for proper uniform and appearance for a force member. His 2nd petition was regarding the suspension order issued against him that commenced a departmental inquiry for maintaining a beard despite being a member of the disciplined force. He further challenged the charge sheet filed by the District Superintendent of Police (Rural Area) of Ayodhya against him.

Counsel for the petitioner argued that the October 2020 circular is a violation of Article 25 of the constitution. This article pertains to the freedom to profess and practice religion. He further argued that Farman's refusal to cut his beard does not amount to misconduct, and therefore no charge sheet should've been filed. However, the court noted that physical appearance is one of the foremost requirements of a disciplined member. Farman's actions violated the orders issued by higher officials and amounted to a misdemeanour.

Justice Rajesh Singh Chauhan directed a departmental inquiry within 3 months. 

Author: Papiha Ghoshal