Kerala Police now allow pregnant officers to wear maternity-friendly alternatives, such as a salwar kameez and sandals, citing practical difficulties.

Kerala Police now allow pregnant officers to wear maternity-friendly alternatives, such as a salwar kameez and sandals, citing practical difficulties.

Kerala Police now allow pregnant officers to wear maternity-friendly alternatives, such as a salwar kameez and sandals, citing practical difficulties.

In a recent move, the Kerala Police announced that pregnant police personnel would no longer be required to wear the prescribed uniform while on duty, citing the practical difficulties of performing official duties.

After examining the matter in the light of existing norms and policies followed in other states, the police department issued a circular permitting pregnant police personnel to wear alternative, maternity-friendly uniforms.

ADVERTISEMENT

During pregnancy, officers may instead wear a khaki salwar kameez and shawl, along with sandals. The circular also clarified that the alternative uniform is optional and not mandatory.

However, the existing uniform rules will continue to apply to women IPS officers.

ADVERTISEMENT

The decision was taken in consideration of the constitutional principles embodied in Articles 15(3) and 21 of the Constitution of India.

Until the circular was issued, the existing rules and orders in the state did not contain any specific provisions regarding uniforms for women police personnel during pregnancy or the post-natal period.

ADVERTISEMENT
Disclaimer: Comments posted here are the sole responsibility of the user and do not reflect the views of Onmanorama. Obscene or offensive remarks against any person, religion, community or nation are punishable under IT rules and may invite legal action.