Indore (Madhya Pradesh): ‘Crime, Grime & Gumption’ is a wonderfully penned-down memoir by O.P. Singh, former DGP, Uttar Pradesh.
This book offers us a firsthand account of Singh’s cases, adventures, and encounters. From braving challenges to managing disasters, the author has very eloquently chronicled his journey in Khakhi and his courageous exploits.
Through his memoir, Singh takes us down the memory lane and teleports the readers to the flashbacks of his experiences. His writing is so pure and full of warmth you can’t help but feel like you’re right there with him on this journey. And yet, his fearless experiences will leave you breathless, skipping a beat at times.
From giving us a glimpse of ‘Barrister Saab ki Kothi’ to taking us on a pulse-pounding ride of ‘hostage situation of 21 children’ just hours before he was due to hang up his boots, Singh’s final hours in service cemented his legacy as a hero.
It’s a must-read book for not only enthusiasts of the crime genre but also for anyone looking for a compelling, well-written experience.
Also, the crime-focused narrative in the book is not at all heavy; in fact, it’s pleasantly engaging and light.
The best part? The inside scoop of the crime world, straight from the horse’s mouth! Lastly, the notes at the end of the book, providing additional context and resources for readers are truly a cherry on the cake.
Tête-à-tête with the author
Q- How do you strike a balance between empathy and toughness?
A- Striking a balance between empathy and toughness is a delicate yet crucial aspect of effective leadership, negotiation and conflict resolution. We must recognise that empathy is not a sign of weakness, but a strength to understand different perspectives, build trust and foster meaningful connections. Toughness, on the other hand, is not about being aggressive or confrontational. Instead, it is about being resilient, firm and principled in the face of challenges and adversity. To strike a balance between empathy and toughness, I practiced active listening and open mindedness. I made a conscious effort to hear people out, understand their concerns and acknowledge their emotions.
Q- What fueled your determination to overcome hurdles you faced during your missions?
A- My unwavering commitment to justice and my passion for protecting the vulnerable fueled my determination to overcome the hurdles I faced. The trust and hope in the eyes of the victims and their families motivated me to push beyond the challenges. I drew strength from my training, experience, and the support of my colleagues, which enabled me to stay focused and driven. Ultimately, it was my duty to serve and protect that propelled me forward. During my days at Lakhimpur Kheri, there were occasions when I felt disappointed in my missions but ultimately it was a strong desire to do something to wipe off the tears of the victims of Sikh terrorism that kept me going.
Q- How did you balance your personal and professional life, especially during particularly challenging cases or periods of high stress?
A- Balancing my professional and personal life has been a deliberate effort for me. As a police officer and an Advisor for India Child Protection now after retirement, my work can be demanding and emotionally challenging. To maintain a healthy balance, I prioritize self-care, make time for loved ones, and set clear boundaries between my work and personal life. By doing so, I’m able to recharge and stay focused on my mission to protect and serve.
Q- As a DGP, you’ve seen the impact of stress and pressure on individuals and communities. How can we work to create a culture that values mental wellness and what role do you think leaders and mentors like yourself can play in promoting that shift?
A- It can be done through multi-faceted ways which I did during my tenure as police officer in different assignments either in state police or in paramilitary forces. Leading by example, creating a safe space, promoting mental wellness initiatives and empowering force members are some of the ways to do. Encouraging open communication is very effective and essential because that gives an opportunity to my officers and team members to feel comfortable in approaching me easily.
Q- Are there any lessons or principles that you’d like to share with aspiring police officers or even your readers?
A- As a seasoned professional, I would like to share some valuable lessons with aspiring police officers. Uphold the highest standards of integrity and stay true to your oath. Regarding policing, build strong relationships with the community and stay curious and keep learning. Additionally, take care of your physical and mental health and try to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Lastly, stay humble and empathetic and be proud of your police service.
