The problem is more acute in the head constables, particularly those who are in their late forties or early fifties. Nearly 70 per cent of the 525 head constables taking the test were found to be overweight by at least 10 kilos and belong to this age group. For instance, a six feet tall, 44-year-old head constable found to be weighing 106 kilos.

While 362 policemen in the security wing are overweight, 300 are overweight in the PCR wing. Another 232 in the police stations of the southern division are overweight. Those suffering from obesity were found to be 441.

Inspector General of Police S K Jain said, “The problem is basically due to their erratic lifestyle and irregular working hours. We have given them a diet chart and are conducting yoga classes and creating awareness in them.”

When asked if being grossly overweight would invite disciplinary action and affect promotions, the IG said till now there was no such rule, but they would ensure that the fitness levels were met.