UPSC CSE Interview: Mastering the “Police Duty and Responsibility” Question

The UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE) personality test—commonly called the “interview”—is not merely about rote answers. It tests clarity of thought, depth of understanding, the ability to articulate, and alignment of personal ethics with constitutional values. When asked, “What is the first and foremost duty and responsibility of the police?”, candidates are expected to directly answer the question, then expand if invited, and finally, react appropriately to probing follow-ups.

The Core Mandate: Clarity and Precision

The police, as an institution, are the most visible arm of the state in daily governance.

Their first and foremost duty is to uphold and enforce the law impartially.

This succinct statement, drawn from the Bureau of Police Research & Development (BPR&D), is the most authoritative and direct response to the interview question.

It is concise, constitutional, and aligns with the UPSC’s preference for precision.

Why it works in the interview:

• Directly answers the question’s key phrase: “first and foremost.”
• Demonstrates knowledge of the official mandate, not just a general understanding.
• Sets a firm foundation for any follow-up questions, allowing you to elaborate if asked.

Expanding the Answer: Depth and Nuance

If the interview board requests elaboration, you should systematically outline the broader responsibilities:

• Protect life, liberty, property, human rights, and dignity of all citizens.
• Maintain public order and peace, prevent and detect crime, and respond to emergencies.
• Act with fairness, courtesy, and respect—especially toward vulnerable groups like minorities, women, children, and the poor.
• Register and investigate crimes promptly, extend assistance to those in distress, and collaborate with other agencies for disaster management and internal security.
• Ensure community trust through transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct.

This expansion shows you understand the complexity of policing in a democracy—balancing enforcement with empathy, and authority with accountability.

Contextualizing for Aspirants: Good, Average, and Bad Responses

Good

“The first and foremost duty of the police is to uphold and enforce the law impartially.” (If asked to expand: “This includes protecting life, liberty, property, human rights, and dignity; maintaining public order; and acting with fairness and respect, especially toward vulnerable groups. Any deviation from this impartial, rights-based approach undermines the legitimacy of policing in a democratic society.”)

Direct, constitutional, and flexible for further discussion. Demonstrates both knowledge and understanding of democratic policing.

Average

“The main duty is to maintain law and order, which involves preventing crime, investigating offenses, and ensuring public safety.”

Correct but generic. Misses the emphasis on impartiality and the rights-based approach expected in modern policing.

Bad

“The police should catch criminals and punish them. Their main job is to keep troublemakers off the streets.”

Overly simplistic, ignores constitutional duties, and lacks awareness of the police’s role in protecting rights and building trust.

Handling Follow-up Questions

The interview will likely probe your understanding of challenges and approaches to reform. Be prepared for questions like:

• “What are the major challenges in performing these duties today, and how would you address them?” Highlight issues such as understaffing, inadequate training, political interference, and erosion of public trust. Propose solutions: recruitment drives, modern training, community outreach, technological upgrades, and transparent accountability mechanisms.
• “How should a police officer balance strict law enforcement with fairness to vulnerable groups?” Emphasize impartial application of the law, sensitivity training, community engagement, and zero tolerance for discrimination or excessive force.
• “What practical steps can police leadership take to improve community relations in communally sensitive areas?” Advocate for regular interaction with community leaders, transparent grievance mechanisms, visible support for marginalized groups, and collaboration with civil society.

Key Takeaways for Aspirants

• Start direct and precise—match the question’s wording.
• Expand systematically—show awareness of the breadth and depth of police responsibilities.
• Prepare for follow-ups—be ready to discuss challenges, reforms, and ethical dilemmas.
• Align with constitutional values—highlight impartiality, human rights, and community trust.
• Avoid oversimplification—never reduce policing to “catching criminals” or “maintaining control.”

Conclusion

The UPSC CSE interview seeks future administrators who grasp both the letter and spirit of the law. When asked about the police’s foremost duty, answer with clarity, constitutional fidelity, and readiness to discuss the nuances of democratic policing. This approach not only answers the question but also signals your potential as a thoughtful, ethical, and effective civil servant.

References: BPR&D, Functions, Roles and Duties of Police in General For further reading: Consult BPR&D manuals, Model Police Act 2006, and recent reports on police reforms for deeper insights into contemporary challenges and best practices.