The Kolkata Police has issued a directive prohibiting its personnel from using earphones or headphones while on duty. Violations of this rule will result in strict disciplinary action. Senior officers have been briefed about this instruction, which has been circulated to all police stations under Kolkata Police’s jurisdiction.
Authorities stated that individuals who disregard this directive will face severe consequences. This decision comes in response to reports of officers being distracted by mobile phones during duty hours. Despite existing regulations against mobile phone use on duty, some personnel were found watching videos or listening to music with earphones, impacting their alertness and responsiveness.
Police Commissioner Ajay Nand has mandated that no personnel can use headphones or earphones while carrying out official duties. This order was relayed to police stations on Saturday night. This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the state government to enhance discipline and effectiveness within the police force.
In a bid to ensure quick responses to emergencies and prevent negligence in policing, heightened surveillance measures have been implemented. Additionally, a recent order from Kolkata Police restricts officers from performing official duties in plain clothes, except for those in specialized units. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari has emphasized the importance of modernizing and strengthening the police force, along with promoting physical fitness among personnel.
The state government plans to bolster the police force by recruiting an additional 20,000 personnel over the next six months to a year. Since the new BJP government assumed power in April, various measures have been introduced to streamline police administration. The government led by Suvendu Adhikari aims to reform the police organization through these initiatives.
