Chhattisgarh government abolishes colonial era guard of honour practice for state ministers, top police officials

RAIPUR: In a significant move, the Chhattisgarh government has announced to abolish the colonial practice of giving guard of honour to state ministers and senior officials of the police during the latter’s routine visits.

The colonial tradition of giving guard of honour to Chhattisgarh minister and top police officials during routine visits, inspection and field trips has been abolished, said the government in an officials statement issued on Wednesday, December 24. “The Home Department has issued an order amending guard of honour rules, which will take effect immediately,” it added.

The order amending the colonial era tradition of guard of honour was issued after review by the Home Department on initiative of deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Vijay Sharma, noted the statement further.

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Under the amended rule, all the state ministers, including the Home Minister, DGP police and other top police officials, will no longer be given guard of honour during their regular visits across the state. The previously prevalent Salami (salute) system during the visits, inspections of officials and ministers has been abolished completely.

The amendment made by the government will allow the police personnel to utilise their time and energy in public service and law and order-related work, enabling them to fulfil their core responsibilities dedicatedly.

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The order issued by the Home Department mentioned that the amended restrictions will not apply to national and state ceremonies, and the previously prevalent traditional guard of honour will remain in place for occasions such as Independence Day, Republic Day, National Unity Day, Martyr Police Memorial Day, state ceremonies and police passing out parade.

The order noted that the guard of honour given to dignitaries holding constitutional posts and distinguished guests will remain in place as per the protocol. “The decision represents the government’s commitment to administrative reforms, marking a significant step towards a modern, people-oriented system which will positively improve the efficiency of the police force,” added the statement.