In the span of 24 hours, Kolkata has witnessed two incidents involving vehicles and traffic rules, but the public response and the actions of the Kolkata Police have highlighted a stark contrast in approach. One incident involves an Indian Army truck, while the other tragically resulted in the death of a biker after being hit by a Kolkata Police pilot car. The seemingly different handling of these cases has raised questions about the application of law and order in the city.
The Army Truck Controversy and the Police’s Firm Stance
On Tuesday, a military truck was intercepted by Kolkata Police near the Writers’ Buildings for allegedly violating a traffic signal and taking a prohibited turn. The incident gained particular attention as the army vehicle narrowly missed the convoy of Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma.
The police were quick to act, registering an FIR against the army truck driver for “negligent and rash driving.” Deputy Commissioner (Traffic) Y.S. Jagannathrao stated that the police were taking legal action based on a complaint filed by a traffic sergeant. Kolkata Police also released CCTV footage of the incident, which they say provides clear evidence of the dangerous driving. The police department’s official statement on social media emphasized a “zero-tolerance policy” for reckless driving and urged the public not to be misled by “unverified claims.”
This incident, however, is not a standalone event. It follows a recent controversy where the Indian Army dismantled a stage set up by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) for a protest at Mayo Road. The Army stated that the stage was an unauthorized structure that had overstayed its two-day permission, and despite multiple reminders, had not been removed. This move prompted West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to rush to the scene and accuse the BJP-led central government of “misusing” the Army for political vendetta. She asserted that the Army should have consulted the state police before taking action. The Army, on the other hand, maintained that they were acting within their jurisdiction over the Maidan area and had informed the Kolkata Police. The recent traffic incident has been viewed by some as a potential escalation of tensions between the state administration and the Army, with the police taking a firm, public position.
Tragic Accident and the Police’s Silence
In stark contrast to the firm and public response in the Army case, the Kolkata Police’s handling of a tragic accident on Basanti Highway has drawn sharp criticism. A biker was killed after being hit by a Kolkata Police pilot car that was part of the convoy of Trinamool Congress MLA Saokat Molla.
According to police sources, the motorcyclist, identified as Mohammed Tajuddin, succumbed to his injuries at SSKM Hospital. While a case of rash driving has been registered at the Leather Complex police station, there has been a notable lack of clarity on the specific actions taken against the police driver. The pilot car’s driver was also injured and is currently undergoing treatment.
The MLA, Saokat Molla, has suggested that the accident may have been caused by a “brake failure” in the police vehicle. The police have stated that an investigation has been initiated and that they are reviewing CCTV footage. However, a source has revealed that the registration of the pilot car was blocked a year ago by the Public Vehicles Department due to its age and lack of a pollution clearance certificate. The police have not yet commented on this specific detail or on the steps taken against the driver, leaving a significant information vacuum.
A Tale Two Incidents
The two incidents, occurring within a 24-hour window, present a compelling and concerning narrative. In the case of the Army vehicle, the police were swift, public, and firm, leveraging CCTV footage and social media to bolster their stance. An FIR was registered and the police’s version of events was clearly articulated.
However, in the case of the fatal accident involving their own vehicle, the police’s response has been guarded and less transparent. While an investigation is underway, the lack of immediate information regarding punitive action against the driver and the silence on the vehicle’s questionable status have fueled public questions. The contrast in the two responses has prompted a debate over whether the police force is demonstrating an unbiased approach to law enforcement or if their actions are influenced by the parties involved.