Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has approved a hike in the monthly remuneration for Gram Rakhis (village guards), raising it from Rs 1,800 to Rs 2,500 per month.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi gave his nod to the hike, which aims to acknowledge the vital role these personnel play in maintaining peace, order, and community policing in rural areas.
According to a press release from the Chief Minister’s Office, the decision recognises the Gram Rakhis’ contributions to crime prevention, village security, and assisting local police in remote and rural jurisdictions. The enhanced remuneration is expected to provide much-needed financial support to the thousands of Gram Rakhis serving across the state.
In a related measure to ensure accountability and regular engagement, the government has introduced a mandatory attendance system. Gram Rakhis are required to report to the police station within whose jurisdiction they operate at least once a week to mark their attendance.
The Gram Rakhi system, governed by the Orissa Grama Rakhi Act, 1967 and related rules, has long been a key component of rural policing in Odisha. These village-based guards assist in monitoring suspicious activities, reporting crimes, and supporting law enforcement in areas where police presence may be limited.
The move comes amid ongoing discussions about improving conditions for community policing personnel, following earlier judicial observations on the need for fair compensation for their services.
In 2024, the Orissa High Court expressed grave concern over the “abysmally low” allowances being paid to grama rakhis and directed the home department to consider their grievances and provide a “decent allowance” for them.
