Kolkata, July 19 (IANS) The Kolkata Police has barred its personnel from using earphones or headphones while on duty, warning that violations will attract strict disciplinary action.
A senior officer of Kolkata Police said on Sunday that instructions in this regard have already been sent to each police station in its jurisdiction and senior officers have been briefed about the matter.
Kolkata Police have also informed that those who ignore the instructions will face strict punishment.
The move follows reports that some personnel were frequently found distracted by their mobile phones while on duty. While the use of mobile phones during duty hours was already prohibited, authorities observed that some personnel continued to watch videos or listen to music with earphones, which affected their alertness and ability to respond to their surroundings.
Police Commissioner Ajay Nand has directed that no personnel will be allowed to use headphones or earphones while performing official duties. The order was communicated to police stations on Saturday night.
The directive is part of a broader effort by the state government to strengthen discipline and improve the efficiency of the police force. The authorities have also stepped up surveillance to ensure prompt responses to emergencies and prevent negligence in policing.
Recently, the Kolkata Police issued another order prohibiting personnel from performing official duties in plain clothes, except those attached to certain specialised units.
In June, Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari stressed the need to modernise and strengthen the police force, while also urging personnel to focus on physical fitness. He had also announced plans to increase police strength across the state by 20,000 personnel over the next six months to one year.
After the new BJP government came to power in April, several steps have been taken to organise the police administration. The Suvendu Adhikari government is trying to reform the police organisation by taking these steps.
–IANS
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