
In a landmark move toward inclusivity, Bengaluru police announced on September 23, 2024, that officers will undergo training in sign language. The initiative, aimed at better serving the city’s deaf and hard-of-hearing population, has been lauded as a significant step in improving accessibility in public services.
As part of the program, officers will be trained to understand and communicate in basic sign language, allowing them to respond more effectively to the needs of citizens with hearing impairments. This initiative is seen as a positive shift towards inclusivity, especially in a city that has a large number of disabled residents.
The program also includes the creation of visual aids and specialized training sessions for officers to ensure that they are equipped to handle diverse situations. Bengaluru police commissioner called it a move “in the right direction,” emphasizing that the training would not only benefit the deaf community but also create a more empathetic and inclusive environment.
This initiative comes at a time when inclusivity and accessibility are being increasingly recognized as essential components of public service.