City Armed Reserve (CAR) personnel posted across Bengaluru are seeking dedicated food facilities to address health and financial concerns [1].
This request highlights the daily struggle of security forces who lack access to nutritious meals while maintaining public order in the city. The lack of institutional support forces officers to rely on unregulated food sources, potentially impacting their long-term health and operational readiness.
Reports indicate that personnel are frequently compelled to eat roadside food [1]. This reliance on street vendors has resulted in additional financial burden and health concerns for the officers [1].
Currently, personnel spend between ₹80 and ₹120 a day on meals [1]. These costs accumulate quickly for officers on long shifts, creating a significant drain on their monthly income.
To address the issue, the Karnataka State Police Cultural Association (KSPCA) has stepped in to advocate for the personnel. The KSPCA said a daily food allowance of ₹100 is suggested [1].
Such an allowance would provide a baseline for officers to procure safer meals, or subsidize the cost of food while stationed at various points across the city [1]. The push for these facilities comes as part of a broader effort to improve the working conditions of the CAR personnel who remain deployed throughout Bengaluru [1].
“Personnel are frequently compelled to eat roadside food”
The demand for food allowances reflects a gap in the logistical support provided to urban security forces. By shifting from roadside consumption to regulated food facilities or allowances, the department could reduce health-related absenteeism and improve the economic stability of lower-ranking officers.
