Police Salute Protocol: IPS vs CAPF DIG

When it comes to saluting among police ranks, a clear protocol is enforced, especially in India, where the Indian Police Service (IPS) and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have their unique hierarchies but also share respect for their counterparts.

Understanding the Hierarchy

The protocol for saluting is generally based on seniority and the established hierarchy within law enforcement agencies. An SP: Superintendent of Police typically from the Indian Police Service (IPS) is expected to salute a DIG: Deputy Inspector General of Police, even if the DIG is from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and not from the IPS. This is due to the seniority of the DIG's rank, which is considered higher regardless of the specific service affiliation.

This salute is not merely a formality but a symbol of respect for the position and the rank held by the officer. Whether an officer is from the IPS, CAPF, Special Training Force (STF), or any other police force, the salute reflects the respect for the rank rather than the specific service they belong to.

Exceptions in Saluting

In general, officers do not salute those who are not their direct superiors to avoid hierarchy-based ego issues. For instance, a DSP/ASP or SP (Deputy Superintendent of Police/Assistant Superintendent of Police) or SP (Superintendent of Police) would not salute a DIG of the Special Training Force (STF) or the CAPF, as these ranks are not directly under their command. However, this rule does not apply when in uniform or in a professional setting.

It's important to remember that any police officer should salute senior officers, regardless of whether the senior officer is from the IPS, CAPF, or another force. Whether it's an IPS, CAPF, or any other police officer, a DIG is a more senior rank, and saluting them is a matter of respect for their position.

Conclusion: The Importance of Salute Protocol

The act of saluting does not bear any relation to the IPS or IAS structure. It is solely based on the rank structure. The salute, therefore, is a matter of respect for the senior officer and is a way to honor the discipline and integrity of the police force. Ignoring the protocol can create bad blood and damage the professional image of the entire force.

A healthy relationship between officers from different forces is crucial. Saluting an officer from a different force, whether they are from the IPS, CAPF, or any other police force, is a sign of mutual respect and understanding. This respect is shown through the insignia and stars/emblem an officer wears, which is a symbol of their rank and rank alone.

While interpersonal relations can sometimes be strained due to ego issues or historical conflicts, the protocol stands firmly on respect and professionalism. It's imperative to look beyond personal or force-related ego and strive for unity among all police officers. A simple act of saluting can go a long way in fostering goodwill and mutual respect.

References

Note: This article aims to provide a general understanding of the police salute protocol in India, focusing on the relationship between IPS and CAPF DIG. For specific guidelines or policies, please refer to the officially recognized sources and manuals of the respective police services.