The history of the police system is traced from its establishment under Lord Cornwallis and the Act of 1861 to the period following the demise of British rule in 1947. Two facets of the police problem are considered: dealing with personnel from the old system and effecting a complete break from that system. Various aspects of police corruption are reported, and reasons for delays in the investigation of cases and their finalization in law courts are provided. Additionally, the persistence of communal conflict is explained, as is the malaise which grips northeastern India. Some guidelines for maintaining security, controlling traffic, and enforcing social laws are provided. Additionally, regional police training is recommended, but this training should be separate from army school training. The need to establish an inspectorate under the Central Ministry of Culture to protect the Nation's art objects is cited, and similar actions taken by other countries are reported. Finally, the role of the community in maintaining law and order is addressed; the need for cooperation between the police and the community is emphasized.