A Karnataka police constable has sparked controversy after posting a WhatsApp status declaring that selling "egg rice" (a popular street food dish of fried rice with eggs) is better than being a police officer. The message has gone viral, prompting senior officials to order an investigation into the matter.
The constable, attached to a police station in Koppal district, reportedly expressed frustration with the demands and pressures of police work through the status update. The post, which has been widely shared on social media, highlights growing discontent among some lower-ranking officers regarding working conditions, long hours, and overall job satisfaction in the force.
According to reports, the status read along the lines of "Better to sell egg rice than be a cop," implying that a simple street vending job might offer more ease or better quality of life compared to the rigors of policing.
The Karnataka State Police department took swift notice of the viral post. Senior officers have initiated a probe to ascertain the context behind the statement, verify if it reflects broader issues within the department, and determine whether it amounts to indiscipline or misconduct under police service rules. Authorities are examining the constable's service record and any potential grievances he may have raised internally.
This incident comes amid ongoing discussions about police welfare in Karnataka, including workload, mental health support, and recruitment challenges. The department has in recent times focused on modernizing facilities and addressing personnel concerns, but such public expressions of dissatisfaction remain rare and are viewed seriously.
The constable's identity has not been officially disclosed in initial reports, and the investigation is underway. Department spokespersons have not yet commented in detail, but sources indicate that appropriate disciplinary action could follow depending on the findings.
The episode has drawn attention to the often-overlooked stresses faced by constables, who form the backbone of day-to-day policing in the state. While some online reactions sympathize with the sentiment, citing low pay relative to risks and responsibilities, others criticize it as unprofessional for a uniformed officer.
Further updates are awaited as the probe progresses.
