After the sharp comments of the Calcutta High Court, the state government has finally clarified the position regarding the role of civic volunteers. The circular issued by the state police have made it clear that civic volunteers have no role in enforcing law and order.
The circular said that civic volunteers will assist the policemen with traffic control. Apart from this, the civic volunteers will work as assistants to the police in managing the crowd at various events, preventing illegal parking, and ensuring the safety of the people.
It is noteworthy that recently the Bankura District Police issued a directive clarifying that Civic Volunteers will teach in schools, which caused a lot of controversies. Later this directory had to be withdrawn. Earlier 10th pass was required for the appointment of Civic Volunteers but this has been reduced to the 8th pass. Currently, there are 1 lakh seven thousand 15 civic volunteers. Of these, 6932 are in the Kolkata Police area.
According to the 2012 contract, the Civic Volunteers are appointed. At present, their salary is nine thousand rupees.The civic volunteers who are computer literate are given the job of data entry in the police station, while others help the sergeant. As a rule, they did not have any weapons and even sticks are not provided. They undergo training in police training schools, after which field postings are given.