Senior officers feel that while shortage of personnel can be allowed in other departments, it cannot be permitted in the police department in view of the changing security scenario and the state being on the radar of international terror outfits.

Moreover, officials said that shortage at the constable and sub-inspector level cannot be allowed as these are the people who play the most important role in handling the law and order situation at the ground level.

They added that since more than 1,500 police constables and sub-inspectors retire every year, these posts should be filled up regularly. Extra personnel should also be recruited due to the fast growth of cities like Ahmedabad and Surat.

The two cities, which are growing at an approximate rate of at least 10 per cent annually, require additional police force for effective management of law and order in the new areas that have been added to the cities.

Officers, however, feel that regular recruitment in the police department is possible only if there is a separate agency for it. This is because the recruits have to be trained and educated in legal and human rights issues before being deployed at police stations and outposts.