Several inspectors and sub-inspectors in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, were exposed cheating during a legal knowledge test organised by Superintendent of Police (SP) Suraj Kumar Rai to ensure only qualified officers receive key postings.
The incident was captured on video and went viral this week, provoking public outrage over police integrity. Senior officials have ordered a departmental probe and promised strict action, amid calls for reforms to restore trust in the force.
Cheating Exposé Clouds Police Integrity
The incident unfolded when inspectors and sub-inspectors underwent a written exam at the directive of SP Suraj Kumar Rai, intended to bolster transparency and meritocracy in officer postings. However, a video from inside the exam hall-showing several officers copying answers from slips and assisting each other-surfaced online, swiftly gaining traction on social media.
The footage not only triggered embarrassment for the police department but also led to a wave of criticism from the public, who questioned the force’s credibility and readiness to uphold the law. SP Rai acknowledged the lapse, stating, “Ukt prakaran mein A.P.S. Baghpat ko jaanch ke liye nirdeshit kiya gaya hai,” confirming that a high-level inquiry is now underway.
Public and Official Outcry
Following the video’s circulation, citizens expressed anger and disappointment, arguing that those entrusted with enforcing the law must themselves be role models for integrity. Civil society and rights groups voiced concerns about the standard of leadership and discipline within the force, demanding robust action to set a positive precedent.
Departmental officials reiterated a ‘zero-tolerance’ approach towards such misconduct, with the SP vowing strict departmental action against those found guilty. Experts and commentators highlighted the risk of damage to public trust and called for immediate corrective steps.
Previous Efforts and New Challenges
The legal knowledge test itself grew out of a departmental initiative to promote fair, merit-based officer assignments, breaking from older systems susceptible to favouritism. While widely seen as a progressive step, the incident highlighted gaps in internal oversight and raised doubts about the effectiveness of such evaluative reforms.
Recent years have already seen concerns in Baghpat over police conduct, with earlier instances of disciplinary action against officers for various infractions. Experts now recommend the introduction of technology-based monitoring, strict invigilation, and greater transparency in recruitment and evaluation to prevent repetition of such scandals.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The foundation of effective policing lies in unwavering integrity; lapses such as this threaten the trust necessary for harmony and lawfulness. Public institutions must lead by example-swift, transparent investigations and meaningful reforms are essential in rebuilding citizens’ confidence.
The Baghpat incident shows that real reform is not just about policy, but about embedding values of honesty and responsibility at every level of service.
