By Kunwar Vikram Singh,
Chairman, CAPSI
Introduction
In India, the Constitution enshrines the fundamental right to security for every citizen, placing the onus on the government to uphold law and order. The security of citizens is explicitly stated as a fundamental right in the Indian Constitution. It is implicitly covered under the right to life and personal liberty (Article 21) and the right to constitutional remedies (Article 32). The state has a duty to protect citizens from harm and ensure their safety. However, due to various challenges such as inadequate police forces, resource constraints, and rising security threats, the government has increasingly relied on private security agencies to fulfill this critical function. This note examines the role of private security agencies in this context and argues that the government should support them financially, as they effectively act as proxies for state security.
Private security agencies as proxy providers
The emergence of private security agencies has filled a significant void in the public security framework, particularly in urban areas where crime rates are higher. The Private Security Agencies Regulation Act was enacted to provide a legal framework for these entities, allowing them to operate within a regulated environment while addressing the growing demand for security services.
Fulfilling security gaps
As the government faces limitations in terms of manpower, funding, and resources, private security agencies play a pivotal role in enhancing safety for individuals and businesses. They not only provide physical security but also contribute to surveillance and risk management, thereby complementing the efforts of public law enforcement.
Legitimization through regulation
The regulation of private security agencies signifies the government’s acknowledgment of their importance in the security landscape. However, this regulatory framework also implies that the state recognizes these agencies as extensions of its responsibility to secure the populace.
Proxy functions and financial responsibility
Since private security agencies are effectively performing a proxy role for the government, it raises key questions about accountability and funding:
Government responsibility
The government is fundamentally responsible for ensuring the safety of its citizens, and when it delegates this function to private entities, it must acknowledge this responsibility financially. The burden of security provision should noat primarily rest on citizens, who are entitled to the fundamental right to security guaranteed by the Constitution.
2. Financial support for private agencies
Given that these agencies are performing essential functions traditionally associated with law enforcement, the government should allocate funds to private security firms. This funding can support operational costs, training, and resources needed for effective security provision, ensuring that these agencies can operate efficiently without passing the financial burden onto the citizens.
3. Ensuring access to security
By providing financial support to private security agencies, the government can ensure that security services remain accessible and affordable for all citizens especially those living in housing societies. This acknowledgment of the state’s role in bolstering private security efforts is crucial for upholding the spirit of the fundamental right to security.
Constituting National Citizens Security Fund
We propose that the government consider implementing a structure that encourages or mandates corporations to allocate a portion of their CSR budgets to the National Citizens Security Fund. This fund would be specifically aimed at enhancing public safety infrastructure, community policing initiatives, and other security-related programs that benefit citizens directly including the payment to private security agencies which are providing security to housing societies.
Many corporations have significant CSR budgets that are not effectively utilized for pressing social challenges. Redirecting a portion of these funds to national security can enhance their impact and address critical needs.
By linking CSR funds to national security, corporations can demonstrate their commitment to societal well-being, which can also enhance their brand image and consumer trust.
Funding allocated to local security initiatives can foster stronger community relations, as citizens observe tangible benefits stemming from corporate contributions to their security.
Establish guidelines
The government should develop clear guidelines outlining how corporations can contribute to the National Citizens Security Fund through their CSR budgets.
Awareness campaign
A nationwide campaign to educate corporations about the importance of contributing to national security can encourage participation.
Monitoring and reporting:
Establish a transparent mechanism to track contributions and measure their impact on citizens’ safety, ensuring accountability and encouraging further participation.
Conclusion
The security of our citizenry is paramount, and it is essential that suggested funding sources are explored to bolster our national security framework. By encouraging corporates to support the National Citizens Security Fund from their CSR allocations, we can create a synergistic approach that not only addresses pressing security challenges but also enhances corporate engagement with communities.
The reliance on private security agencies to supplement governmental security efforts highlights a critical intersection between public responsibility and private provision. As these agencies undertake roles traditionally expected from the government, it is necessary for the state to support them financialy. This approach not only alleviates the burden on citizens but also reinforces the government’s commitment to protecting the fundamental right to security enshrined in the Constitution. By recognizing the importance of private security agencies and providing the necessary support, the government can create a more integrated and effective security framework for all.
We urge the government to consider this proposal seriously and take proactive measures to facilitate corporate contributions to the National Citizens Security Fund.
