MALDA, 12 MARCH: Policing in Malda is being adversely affected owing to shortage of staff and equipment. According to some officers of police department, the district lacks the required number of police personnel and equipment to maintain law and order and bring down crime rate. Cops do not have sufficient number of batons, helmets or firearms for doing their job properly and therefore are often caught short during emergencies.
Addressing a police conference here recently, the West Bengal Police Association secretary, Mr Bijitaswa Routh, suggested that the state government review the position of the police department every three years and provide the required staff and equipment.
“The assessment, however, is not being done”, he rued adding, “The department is understaffed and extra pressure is often built up on the force. The load is taking its toll and the policemen are not being able to function properly. Moreover, there is a shortage of inspectors and sub-inspectors, which is why investigation of many cases remain pending at every police station. The state cannot expect quality investigation from an officer who is already burdened with the several others”, he added.
When asked about the problem, the Malda SP, Mr Bhuban Mandal did not want to elaborate on the subject.
“I have informed the state government through my higher authorities about the situation here and have sought required personnel, equipment and proper infrastructure”, the SP said.
It was learnt that the Malda police authority has proposed that at least seven police stations – English Bazaar, Gazole, Habibpur, Harishchandrapur, Chanchal, Ratua and Kaliachak—be bifurcated for better functioning. SNS
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