PVLF 2026

Interview with Amit Lodha Author of Police Affairs: Beyond the Call of Duty

An IPS officer-turned-author explores flawed characters, morality, and power through fiction, offering a nuanced look at policing, human choices, and the realities behind the uniform.
on Apr 19, 2026

Frontlist: What inspired you to write this book, and you know what this book is all about?

Amit: I never really intended to write another book, as I’m not an author by profession. My primary work is in policing, which keeps me quite occupied. However, during the COVID period about four years ago, an idea struck me, what if I wrote about an IPS officer.

My earlier books were based on my own experiences, and many readers perceived the protagonist as an ideal IPS officer, almost a role model. This time, I wanted to explore something different. I chose to write about an IPS officer who is not perfect, someone with shades of grey.The story is fictional but draws heavily from real-life experiences, both mine and those of others, along with incidents from the news.

Frontlist: On the occasion of World Book Day, how do you see storytelling from within the police force shaping public understanding of duty, ethics, and justice?

Amit: Many police officers in our country have written books, and most have been well received. From my experience, people still hold police officers, especially IPS officers, in high regard.There are numerous officers who exemplify integrity, professionalism, and dedication. When they document theirexperiences, it can be deeply inspiring, particularly for young readers. It also helps bridge the gap between public perception and the realities of the system.

Frontlist: Your book marks a shift in genre. How does storytelling, in your view, deepen the impact compared to real-life accounts?

Amit: When you write fiction, you have the freedom to explore and describe situations in greater depth. As a serving officer, I still need to be mindful of what I write. However, whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, the essence remains truth.

Stories allow readers to understand the inner workings of the system, the complexities behind decisions, whether right or wrong. In many ways, storytelling reflects society itself. Even if you fictionalize certain elements, the truth remains at its core, and that’s what creates a strong impact on readers.

Frontlist: Books often humanize institutions that are otherwise seen in binaries. Through your protagonist’s journey, what human truths were you most keen to explore?

Amit: The central idea is simple, nobody is perfect.People in positions of power often appear flawless from the outside, as if they always make the right decisions. But in reality, all of us have shades of grey. At times, we are driven by personal motives and self-interest.My protagonist reflects this reality, he is professionally competent, a capable officer, and has a stable personal life, yet he is not without flaws.

Frontlist: As someone who has lived life behind the uniform, how important is it to document and share these experiences for future readers? Why should such stories be told?

Amit: As I mentioned earlier, many people still view the police as an ideal institution, and expectations are naturally high. While there are shortcomings, the police force largely reflects society itself.

Documenting these experiences is important because police work is often visible to the public, every action, whether right or wrong, is scrutinized. When someone who has faced real challenges and made difficult decisions shares their journey, it becomes both inspiring and educational.Such books serve as a repository of experiences that others can learn from.

Frontlist: Since your book comes around the time of World Book Day, which celebrates the power of stories to spark dialogue, what conversations do you hope your novel initiates around morality, power, and personal choices?

Amit: I believe readers will have diverse reactions. I had mentioned in the author’s note that I was eager to see how people would respond.

So far, the reviews have been positive, but some readers mentioned they weren’t expecting this kind of story from me. That’s interesting because people often assume I would write only about ideal officers.

But real life is not like that. Through this book, I hope to start conversations about the complexities of morality, the burden of power, and the role of personal choices.

Frontlist: Policing is a demanding profession. How do you manage being both a police officer and an author? Any practical advice for aspiring writers?

Amit: For me, writing is not a source of livelihood, so there’s no pressure attached to it. I write because I enjoy it. That makes my journey different from someone pursuing writing full-time.

My advice would be simple, write from the heart. Every writer has a unique style, and it’s important not to imitate others. Be true to yourself and write what genuinely brings you satisfaction.

In my earlier books, I focused on honesty. I didn’t exaggerate, glorify, or demonize anyone, I simply presented the truth in a straightforward and accessible manner. Passion and authenticity are key.

Frontlist: Your book blends suspense with psychological depth. How do you think contemporary readers are engaging with such layered narratives today?

Amit: The world today is increasingly complex. With constant digital engagement, people tend to lose interest quickly. To keep readers engaged, stories need compelling characters and layered narratives.

Many stories today feel repetitive, so it’s important to bring something unique to the table. My story draws from various real-life experiences, which I’ve woven together into a fictional narrative.

I’m glad that readers have responded positively so far, but ultimately, it’s up to them to decide its impact.

Frontlist: Finally, as both a reader and an author, what role have books played in shaping your journey, both within the police service and beyond?

Amit: As a police officer and as a writer, being well-read is essential. Books help me stay aware of the world around me.Despite the rise of technology , mobile phones, algorithms, social media, books remain the best source of knowledge and joy for me.

I’ve had a habit of reading since childhood, and it continues to this day. I may have a busy schedule, but I always keep books nearby, at home and at work. Whenever I find time, I read.For me, nothing can truly replace the experience of reading a good book.