VIBHA VERMA
vibha@herald-goa.com
PANJIM: In an amusing case of human ingenuity, several policemen who were sought to be disciplined by subjecting them to physical proficiency test (PPT), have reportedly failed deliberately, so that they get three-month placement at Police Training School, Valpoi, their hometown, which will save them the arduous journey to Panjim.
Senior officials within the force confirmed that several policemen travelling from Valpoi and adjoining places to Panjim have preferred to fail the test, so that they are saved from travelling to the capital during the rains from the far off places.
The PPT has been conducted to check the physical fitness of the policemen and those who do not pass the test have to undergo training at PTS, Valpoi.
“Imagine us travelling on two-wheeler to Panjim in these rains. It is better to be in Valpoi,” informed a constable, on condition of anonymity.
The policemen are happy that during their training in PTS, they will effect salary savings since they would not have to spend much on travel. “We are saving the money,” said another constable attached to GRP.
“If we fail the test, the three months training in PTS will not only make us fit but also free us from traveling to far off distances. By the time the training is over, more than half the rainy season will be over,” said another cop.
The PPT was initiated by the government to ensure the department maintains high standards of physical fitness and be ready to respond to all possible situations. The cops ingenuity will now raise a question mark whether government’s decision to conduct PPT annually will serve the right purpose.
A senior officer said the tests are being conducted thoroughly and refused to accept that there were any manipulations. “Many have passed the test. There are hardly few who have failed because of medical reasons or minor failure,” the officer said.
The police also defended the delay in completing the test stating that some personnel who were on casual leave or medical leave had skipped the test and they will undergo the test now.
