Special Police Officers

(1) When the Police force ordinarily employed in any area is not sufficient to deal with a situation threatening peace and security, the Superintendent of Police or any officer, specially empowered in this behalf by the state Government, in-charge of that area may, at any time by a written order issued under the hand and seal of such officer, appoint for a period as specified in the appointment order, any able-bodied and willing person between the age of 18 and 40 years, whom he considers fit, to be a Special Police Officer to assist the Police Service. (2) Every Special Police Officer so appointed shall- (i) on appointment, undergo the prescribed training and thereafter receive a certificate in a form approved by the State Government in this behalf; and (ii) have the same powers, privileges and protection and be liable to perform the same duties and responsibilities and be subject to the same authorities as an ordinary Police Officer.