After Odisha, Chandigarh Police Issue SOP On Dealing With Army Personnel For Legal Requirements

Last Updated:June 21, 2025, 06:30 IST

The SOP, released by the Chandigarh DGP, outlines detailed instructions on how police officers must conduct themselves when interacting with military personnel

A key highlight of the SOP is the clause that serving Army personnel cannot be arrested without prior permission from the central government unless involved in serious crimes such as rape, murder, or kidnapping unrelated to official duties. Representational image

After Odisha, Chandigarh police have issued a standard operating procedure for dealing with defence personnel in a legal or procedural context.

The SOP, released by the director general of police (DGP) of the union territory of Chandigarh, outlines detailed instructions on how police officers must conduct themselves when interacting with military personnel—whether they are complainants, accused, witnesses, or mediators.

“This SOP has been established to ensure that all interactions with Army personnel are conducted in a lawful, professional, respectful, impartial, and transparent manner," stated the DGP’s official order. “Maintaining a respectful and courteous demeanor, ensuring prompt attention to grievances, and providing necessary legal and logistical support is key to this protocol."

A key highlight of the SOP is the clause that serving Army personnel cannot be arrested without prior permission from the central government unless involved in serious crimes such as rape, murder, or kidnapping unrelated to official duties. In such cases, immediate intimation must be sent to the nearest military station headquarters with all details of the arrest.

“All actions must remain fair, lawful, and transparent to foster trust and cooperation between the two institutions," the order emphasised.

The DGP has given various key provisions while dealing with Army personnel in different situations.

Army personnel lodging complaints are to be given priority and treated with confidentiality and dignity. In case of arrest, strict adherence to Sections 42 and 43 of BNSS is required, and military authorities must be informed immediately. The SOP says witnesses or mediators from the Army should be engaged respectfully, with preference for remote communications unless physical presence is absolutely necessary.

As per the SOP, a dedicated desk under a DSP-rank officer will handle all Army-related matters to ensure seamless communication and coordination. High-profile or sensitive cases may involve the formation of a special investigation team (SIT).

Any police misconduct involving defence personnel will be dealt with in a strict and transparent manner.

The SOP also mandates that Army property, such as weapons, vehicles, and equipment, must be handled carefully and reported promptly. Media disclosures involving Army personnel are restricted without official clearance to safeguard sensitive information.

To further reinforce coordination, the SOP calls for the establishment of a Military Coordination Branch and joint workshops to improve mutual respect and understanding between the forces.

Concluding the document, the DGP directed “all concerned to ensure meticulous compliance accordingly".

This initiative is expected to build greater mutual respect and trust between the Chandigarh police and the Indian Army, fostering a harmonious civil-military relationship and upholding the rule of law.

Ankur Sharma

With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitar...Read More

With over 15 years of journalistic experience, Ankur Sharma, Associate Editor, specializes in internal security and is tasked with providing comprehensive coverage from the Ministry of Home Affairs, paramilitar...

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News india After Odisha, Chandigarh Police Issue SOP On Dealing With Army Personnel For Legal Requirements