Colonial-Era Guard of Honour Protocol Scrapped in Chhattisgarh; Major Reform Led by Deputy CM Vijay Sharma
Raipur, Dec 24
In a historic move aimed at strengthening administrative efficiency and modernizing governance, the Chhattisgarh Government has abolished the colonial-era practice of giving Guard of Honour to ministers and senior police officers during routine visits and inspections.
The decision was taken on the initiative of Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma and formally approved through an order issued by the Home Department under the directions of Governor Ramen Deka. The order comes into effect immediately.
End to ceremonial salutes during routine visits
As per the new directive, Guard of Honour will no longer be presented during the arrival, departure, inspection, or district tours of the Home Minister, other Ministers, Director General of Police (DGP), and senior police officials.
This long-standing practice, inherited from colonial times, has now been completely discontinued.
The government said the change will help save valuable time and manpower of the police force, allowing officers and personnel to focus more on their primary responsibilities—law and order, public safety, and crime control.
National and state ceremonies exempted
The Guard of Honour will, however, continue for major national and state occasions, including:
- Republic Day (January 26)
- Independence Day (August 15)
- Police Commemoration Day (October 21)
- National Unity Day (October 31)
- State functions and Police Passing Out Parades
Protocol for constitutional dignitaries remains
The order also clarifies that Guard of Honour will continue to be accorded to constitutional dignitaries and distinguished guests as per established protocol.
The reform reflects the government’s push towards citizen-centric governance and administrative modernization, and is expected to improve police morale and enhance operational efficiency across the state.
