Bihar DGP Orders Withholding of Police Salaries for Failure to Appear in Court as Witnesses

Patna: In a firm directive aimed at expediting criminal proceedings, Bihar’s Director General of Police (DGP), Vinay Kumar, has announced that the salaries of police officers who fail to appear in court for testimony will be withheld.

The move comes amid growing concerns that delays in witness testimony—particularly by police officers—have been hampering speedy trials across the state. Speaking on the issue, DGP Vinay Kumar emphasised that all witnesses, whether from the government or the public, must appear in court under all circumstances. “There will be no excuse for non-appearance,” he said.

To ensure better compliance, the Bihar Police is set to launch a dedicated website that will streamline the summoning of police personnel listed as witnesses in criminal cases. This portal will allow for the electronic dispatch of summons, particularly targeting officers who have either been transferred to different districts, retired from service, or are currently ill.

“The onus is on the police department to ensure that government witnesses are presented in court,” Vinay Kumar stated. He added that the department will provide necessary transportation and other support services to ensure these witnesses can attend court proceedings without hindrance.

The policy shift signals a broader push towards judicial efficiency and accountability in Bihar’s criminal justice system.