Karnataka Police chief orders installation of temporary toilets for personnel during bandobast duties, lays emphasis on women staff

The circular, dated October 29, 2026, states that access to clean and hygienic toilets is a basic necessity.

Karnataka Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG&IGP) M.A. Saleem has issued a circular directing all police unit heads to ensure temporary toilet facilities, particularly separate and safe toilets for women personnel, during major bandobast duties.

The circular, dated October 29, 2026, states that access to clean and hygienic toilets is a basic necessity linked to the dignity, health and efficiency of police personnel.

It points out that officers and staff deployed for prolonged hours on roads often face a lack of access to toilet facilities, which can affect their physical health, concentration, morale and alertness.

The circular highlights that withholding the use of toilets for extended periods can lead to urinary tract infections, dehydration, digestive problems and avoidable fatigue. It also notes that women personnel face greater difficulties due to privacy, safety and menstrual hygiene requirements.

The police chief has also instructed officials to ensure regular cleaning and maintenance, along with uninterrupted supplies of water, soap or hand sanitiser and tissues or paper. A person or agency must be made responsible for maintaining the facilities throughout the event.

Zonal supervisory officers have been asked to ensure staggered breaks so that no personnel are compelled to remain at their duty points without an opportunity to use the toilet. Drinking water must also be made available.

Each police unit must appoint a woman nodal officer for every major bandobast to supervise the arrangements and address complaints on the spot.

The expenditure on hiring or arranging temporary toilet facilities must be included in bandobast budget estimates. Any shortfall in funds must be brought to the notice of senior officers well in advance.

Emphasising that staff welfare is the responsibility of the police department, Mr Saleem has directed all police commissioners, range inspectors general and district superintendents of police to treat the matter as a priority, ensure strict compliance and submit compliance reports.