Delhi police get polite

By Ayanjit Sen
BBC correspondent in Delhi

Delhi's police will soon be taking lessons in courtesy as part of a drive to improve the public image of the khaki-clad force.

A common sight: police in riot gear lead away a protester

According to a police spokesman, officers will be taught how to behave in a courteous manner towards members of the public and to deal appropriately with their grievances.

Spokesman Ravi Pawar told the BBC that the training in good manners was "intended to enhance a sense of security and create confidence among the public".

But Delhi residents wonder whether the campaign to clean up the police's image will have any real effect.

"I do not think the police will ever be able to adhere to their official slogan - 'With you, for you, always', said bank employee Raman.

Hotel receptionists

Complaints of police corruption and heavy-handedness are commonplace in the Indian capital.

There are regular reports of policemen demanding bribes from crime victims before they act on a complaint. Often, those who fail to pay up say they are treated rudely or indifferently.

Politeness training will try to make policemen friendlier

All that is set to change, according to a senior police officer, who told the BBC his men would now learn to behave like hotel receptionists.

"This will encourage affected people to approach the police without any hesitation and they should feel that the police are their friends," said the officer.

Other proposals include a feedback form, which will ask crime victims to rate how the police dealt with them. Surprise checks may also be carried out on police stations to monitor standards.

Delhi police claims to be the one of the biggest urban forces in the world, employing over 57,000 people.