Introduction:
In a major development aimed at strengthening grassroots policing, the Maharashtra government has officially empowered trained police constables to investigate minor crimes. The decision, announced through a government notification on May 9, 2025, comes as part of the state’s broader implementation of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023. This reform seeks to address the persistent shortage of personnel in the police force while accelerating the resolution of low-level criminal cases.
Body:
Previously, only officers of the rank of sub-inspector and above were authorized to conduct criminal investigations in Maharashtra. However, with more than 10% of the state’s 260,000 sanctioned police posts currently vacant, the government has moved to distribute investigative responsibilities more efficiently. Under the new framework, select head constables and police constables will now be eligible to investigate non-serious offenses, subject to strict qualifications.
To qualify, constables must have a graduate degree, at least seven years of police service, and no ongoing departmental inquiries. Additionally, they must complete a six-week training program at the Detective Training School in Nashik and pass a final examination to gain investigative authority.
According to senior officials, this policy shift aligns with the objectives of BNSS 2023, which aims to make policing more responsive and citizen-centric. “This move will not only improve the pace of investigations but also optimize human resources in the department. It represents a modern, practical approach to community policing,” a senior Home Department officer stated.
Eligible constables will primarily handle minor or non-cognizable crimes such as petty theft, verbal abuse, or simple assault. More complex or serious criminal matters will continue to be handled by higher-ranking officers. Importantly, the final decision to assign investigative duties rests with the station house officer (SHO), who will assess whether a constable is suitable for a particular case.
This policy also follows the 2021 abolition of the police naik post — a rank that previously served as a bridge between constables and head constables. By empowering lower-ranked officers with proper training, the state is effectively filling the operational void left by the removal of this rank.
In tandem with this decision, the Maharashtra police force is also upgrading its forensic and technological capabilities. The government has introduced mobile forensic vans and expanded virtual testimony options in courts, aiming to streamline the justice process while maintaining evidence integrity.
Conclusion:
Maharashtra’s decision to allow trained constables to investigate minor crimes underlines a significant shift in policing philosophy, emphasizing resource optimization, quicker justice delivery, and grassroots empowerment. With the integration of new provisions under the BNSS 2023 and strategic training programs, the move is expected to bolster public trust and operational efficiency within the law enforcement system. As the policy rolls out across the state, it could serve as a model for other regions grappling with similar staffing and efficiency challenges.
