Ex-army officer accuses traffic police of misbehaving in Haryana’s Gurugram; files complaint

Ex-Army Officer Accuses Gurugram Traffic Police of Mishandling During Checkpoint

Ex army officer accuses traffic police - An ex-army officer has come forward with allegations that Gurugram traffic police officers mistreated him and his family during a routine roadside check on June 7th. The complaint, filed by Major Hemendra Singh, a retired military official, highlights concerns about the conduct of traffic police and their adherence to procedural norms. The incident, which unfolded in the late evening on Cyber City Golf Course Road, has sparked a debate over the balance between law enforcement efficiency and citizen rights.

Incident Details and Family Experience

Singh, who was returning home with his wife and two daughters after dinner, was stopped by a traffic police team. The officers reportedly subjected the family to an extended interrogation, citing suspicion of alcohol consumption. According to Singh, the police kept the vehicle on the road for about one and a half hours at midnight, causing significant distress to the family. "We were made to wait for hours without any clear reason," Singh stated in a detailed account, emphasizing the lack of transparency in the officers’ actions.

The initial breathalyzer test, conducted by the traffic officer, showed an alcohol reading of 91 mg/100 ml, which exceeded the legal limit. However, Singh contested the result, arguing that the device was not properly maintained. He noted that the officer reused the same straw and nozzle without cleaning, potentially skewing the reading. "This procedural negligence raised doubts about the accuracy of the test," he added, pointing to the inconsistent results that followed.

"When I requested a fresh retest with a new nozzle, the officer grew agitated and raised his hand in a threatening gesture," Singh recounted. "Despite this, the second and third tests revealed readings of 13 mg/100 ml, which is well within the safe range."

The ex-army officer’s allegations are not only about the momentary confrontation but also about the broader behavior of traffic police in Gurugram. He criticized the lack of professionalism and the tendency to escalate situations without sufficient evidence. "This incident reflects a pattern of misbehavior by traffic officers who prioritize speed over fairness," Singh said, underscoring the need for accountability within the department.

Background and Credibility of the Accuser

Maj. Hemendra Singh, who retired in 2007 due to a disability, has a distinguished military career. He was wounded during a terrorist encounter in Jammu and Kashmir and played a key role in neutralizing three militants. His experience in the armed forces adds weight to his claims, as he described the traffic police’s actions as similar to those of a hostile environment. "I’ve faced combat situations, but the way the traffic officers treated us was equally stressful," he remarked, highlighting his credibility in the matter.

Currently, Singh holds a senior corporate position, which further solidifies his standing as a reliable witness. The complaint he filed has already drawn attention from local authorities, with police officials confirming that the case is under investigation. The traffic police department has since acknowledged the need to review the incident and address any lapses in protocol. "We are looking into the matter to ensure the officers involved are held accountable," a senior official stated.

The ex-army officer’s detailed account has also prompted discussions about the training and conduct of traffic police in Gurugram. Critics argue that such incidents are not isolated and often go unaddressed. "There is a need for better training to prevent such mishandling," said a local resident, who witnessed the event. The community’s reaction underscores growing dissatisfaction with the traffic police’s operations, especially during peak hours when public transport is most affected.

Following the incident, Singh contacted emergency services, leading to the officers’ immediate departure from the scene. This action has been interpreted as a sign of their awareness of the controversy. The police have since pledged to improve transparency and ensure that future checkpoints are conducted with greater care. "We are working to resolve this matter swiftly and restore public trust," the official added.

As the investigation progresses, the ex-army officer’s complaint is expected to influence policy changes within the traffic police department. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of due process in law enforcement, particularly when dealing with individuals of high social standing. "It’s not just about one incident—it’s about systemic issues that need correction," Singh concluded, calling for a more equitable approach to traffic management in Gurugram.