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Ranabir Bhattacharyya, Team Protector.

Established in 1888, Burtolla Police Station stands as one of the oldest police stations in India, a sentinel of justice woven into the rich cultural tapestry of the North and North Suburban Division of the Kolkata Police Force. Nestled at 1, Raja Rajkrishna Street, this historic institution is more than just a law enforcement hub -it is a testament to the enduring values of duty, discipline, and dedication. With its red-bricked façade and towering watchtowers, remnants of the British era, Burtolla Police Station seamlessly bridges the past with the present, preserving tradition while embracing modern efficiency.

Guardians of the City

Spanning an estimated area of 1.471786 sq. km, Burtolla Police Station is home to a formidable team of officers committed to maintaining peace and order. The Force includes two Inspectors, twelve Sub-Inspectors, one Lady Sub-Inspector, two Sergeants, seventeen Assistant Sub-Inspectors, three Assistant Sub-Inspectors, forty-nine Constables, seven Lady Constables, thirteen Home Guards, thirty Civic Volunteers, and eighteen Lady Civic Volunteers – each playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety of the community.

Community Policing

At Burtolla Police Station, law enforcement goes beyond crime prevention. Various community outreach initiatives, such as Pronam (dedicated to senior citizens), regular health checkups, puja parikrama, and emergency medical assistance, have strengthened the bond between the police and the people. The Nabadisha Project, a Kolkata Police initiative aimed at uplifting underprivileged children, provides private tuition to around thirty students from Pre-Primary to Class V. Additionally, the Station recently hosted the 1187th Blood Donation Camp, an integral part of Utsarga, a flagship initiative of the Community Policing Wing of Kolkata Police, promoting voluntary blood donation, was held at the Burtolla Police Station ground.

The Man Behind the Badge: Subarna Dutta Chaudhuri

Officer-In-Charge (OC) Subarna Dutta Chaudhuri embodies the spirit of service and resilience. Reflecting on his journey, he shares, “This area is a living testament to North Kolkata’s heritage. The warmth of the people here is unmistakable. From bustling markets and metro stations to hospitals and educational institutions, Burtolla is a manifestation of Kolkata’s vibrant life.”

Speaking about his journey as a police officer, he shared, “I am the first in my family to join the police force. I completed my schooling at Julian Day, Ganganagar, and later pursued a degree in Zoology from Jaipuria College. Since childhood, I had dreamed of joining the Indian Army. Incidentally, my family runs a solicitor firm, and I also completed my LLB. Being an only child, I had one condition—I would stay in Kolkata with my parents. In 1996, my dream came true when I joined the Kolkata Police, marking the beginning of an incredible journey.”

Incidentally, Subarna Dutta Chaudhuri began his journey in uniform at Tangra Police Station before being transferred to Phoolbagan Police Station.

He then had a brief tenure at the State Vigilance Commission, followed by successive postings at Shakespeare Sarani and Bhawanipur Police Stations. As a Second Officer, he was assigned to Burtolla Police Station, where he served until 2014. After a three-month stint at Lake Police Station, he spent two and a half years at Kasba Police Station. As Officer-in-Charge, he led West Port, followed by postings at Tiljala and Ultadanga, before ultimately taking charge as the OC of this historic police station.

Trials, Triumphs and an Unwavering Resolve

“There are some incidents that remain etched in our memories. During my first stint at Burtolla Police Station, a robust man was found dead in a brothel in Sonagachi. One of our departmental colleagues was tasked with investigating the mysterious death. Three months later, the post-mortem report revealed that the man had died by manual strangulation. Interestingly, the deceased had a live-in partner, a thin and frail-looking woman, who was with him on that tragic day. Circumstantial evidence pointed to her as the possible suspect. However, concrete proof was necessary to present to the court. It is known that a person is most vulnerable during sexual intimacy. If someone is strangled during such an intimate moment, death can occur almost instantly.” This entire incident and the method of operation truly underscored the medico-legal expertise of the Officer in Charge (OC).

The highly publicised RG Kar incident caused significant stress for all of us involved. We faced strong criticism, but the most challenging aspect was the social ostracisation we endured, which was truly unimaginable. I live in Salt Lake, and whenever someone passes away in our community, I make sure that all necessary arrangements are handled appropriately. However, after this incident and the ensuing protests, our community became divided. It was an unpleasant experience that we did not deserve. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I faced physical segregation as a frontline worker. Yet this time, many of my acquaintances turned against me simply because I am a police representative. That was shocking, to say the least. My daughters, who were still in school and college, also went through a tumultuous time as they were not spared from the backlash. This was especially painful for me. I am very grateful for my school friends who stood by me through thick and thin. I can only say that as a member of a law enforcement agency, we must exercise patience during these times. We work tirelessly in accordance with the law, and I truly believe that truth will prevail. I also believe that, ultimately, time will heal everything,” remarked the veteran police officer.

An Officer with an Unyielding Spirit

Subarna Dutta Chaudhuri has been recognised with numerous awards throughout his distinguished career. With strong credentials in medico-legal matters, he has been instrumental in solving complex cases, earning widespread praise for his investigative breakthroughs. His academic foundation in Zoology, coupled with further studies in Physiology and human anatomy, has provided invaluable insights for the Department in critical investigations.

A marksman of exceptional calibre, he is regarded as one of the finest shooters in the police fraternity, having won three gold medals and four silver medals while representing the Kolkata Police. He was honoured with the Seva Padak in 2011 and the Bravery Award in 2021 for his dedication and service.

One of the most defining moments of his career was the West Port incident, where he sustained severe injuries in the line of duty. Recalling the harrowing experience, he shared:

“In 2021, a dacoity on the Garden Reach Flyover became a major concern for us. A gang had brutally assaulted a man and fled with ₹4 Lakhs. At West Port Police Station, we had a dedicated team determined to bring them to justice. We hunted them down and were able to identify the suspects. Two days after this incident, on June 29, as we were doing a thorough check on the same flyover, three individuals on three motorcycles attempted a similar tactic. We went in hot pursuit after them. At one point, I became separated from my team and managed to grab hold of one of the bikers. However, this suspect on a Royal Enfield accelerated, causing me to lose balance and crash onto the road, with blood pouring out from my wounds.

Despite my condition, I managed to note down the number plate details before reaching Garden Reach State General Hospital. Doctors confirmed a severe hand fracture, necessitating an emergency operation at a private hospital, where the Department ensured I received the best possible care.

It was the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the private nursing home felt like something out of a horror story. However, within my capacity as a police officer, I extended help to the COVID patients around me. Since I was not a COVID patient, I was allowed to keep my mobile phone, and I used it to the best of my ability to assist others. I was finally discharged on July 7. That experience changed me forever.”

While Burtolla has long dealt with the challenges of its red-light district, the rise of cybercrime presents a new frontier of challenge to the police. The police station remains proactive, engaging with citizens, especially the elderly, through digital awareness programmes and WhatsApp groups. The Station’s recent swift action in the heinous case of a seven-month-old baby’s assault epitomises their relentless pursuit of justice.

Leaving a Legacy

As he nears his 30th year in service, Subarna Dutta Chaudhuri remains unwavering in his belief: “You can do all the good things in police uniform.” His journey is not just one of duty but of inspiration-proof that true leadership is defined by courage, compassion, and an unbreakable commitment to justice.

Shrinkhala Sharma is a seasoned and decorated police officer who joined the Force in 2004. She was born and raised in Kalimpong. Shrinkhala completed her undergraduate studies at Loreto College in Darjeeling, followed by her postgraduate degree in Siliguri. She later earned a Bachelor of Education (BEd) from Darjeeling. “Initially, I prepared for jobs related to academia. However, after the sudden loss of my mother, my perspective on life changed significantly. I decided to follow in my sister’s footsteps – that as a woman in Khaki. This decision led to a life-changing journey, and I have now completed 20 years in uniform within one of the best police forces in the world.”

After completing her 15-month training, Shrinkhala Sharma joined the South Port Police Station in 2006. A year later, she transferred to the Park Street Police Station, and then to the Beniapukur Police Station, where she served for three years. After spending five years at the Karaya Police Station, she returned to the Park Street Police Station, this time being promoted to Officer-In-Charge of the Women Grievance Cell at Lalbazar Headquarters. Following a brief tenure as the Officer-In-Charge of the Ultadanga Women Police Station, she took on the role of Officer-In-Charge at the Taltala Women Police Station.

The Formative Years

“As I am from the hills, my Bengali was not very good. Thankfully, in the Port Division, I had no trouble communicating with the Hindi-speaking population. Looking back now, I feel extremely fortunate to have joined the police service and to serve society. Initially, I was very skeptical when my sister joined the police. My first visit to a police station was when she started her career. However, as I learned more about this profession—the opportunity to listen to people’s problems, address their complaints, and help them achieve justice—I became grateful for my role in the Kolkata Police Force,” says Shrinkhala, reflecting on her commitment to the job.

Experience Working in the Women Grievance Cell

“When I began my career at a general police station, the system and environment were quite different. Over the years, it has become more accessible. At the Lalbazar Women Grievance Cell, I had the opportunity to listen to the complaints of distressed women and families in urgent need of help.

I empathised with them and provided counseling. Whether it involved abuse, torture, trauma, or violence, these experiences profoundly changed me. I handled various cases, many of them critical, and assisted the victims and their families in pursuing justice through legal channels. Overall, this experience made me more efficient, resilient, and truly dutiful in my role,” remarked Shrinkhala Sharma.

Examining the complaints received at the Taltala Women Police Station, it is evident that the demographics are similar to those in Beniapukur, Karaya, and other areas of Central Kolkata. Most registered cases involve incidents of domestic violence, rape, and POCSO (Protection of Children from Sexual Offences). Women from underprivileged sections of society often approach the officials at Taltala Women Police Station in distress.

“In many instances, married women do not wish to take action against their husbands. Instead, they request us to talk to them, hoping to prevent further violence. However, these women frequently return the next morning with bruises and cuts. In such cases, we are obligated to intervene. Additionally, we receive complaints of rape, where women are given false promises of marriage that never materialise. POCSO cases involving minors are also prevalent. We are also increasingly receiving complaints regarding various forms of cybercrime affecting women,” added Shrinkhala Sharma.

Fighting the Mental Health Clock

The mental health challenges faced by men and women in uniform are ever-present. “My biggest stress reliever is my daughter. Whenever I’m home, I fully immerse myself in my role as her mother. I teach her English and Social Studies. I recently lost my pet dog, which was difficult, but when I’m with my daughter, I focus entirely on her. This certainly helps reduce my stress. When I return to my uniform, I leave everything else behind. I dive deeply into each case and make sure that I read everything thoroughly. After all, no woman comes to the police station for a casual visit; something must have happened that has troubled or distressed her. Proper investigation is our priority, and we have a duty to seek justice for the women who reach out to us for help. In this respect, I must admit that wearing the uniform offers us a unique opportunity that no other job or profession can provide,” remarks OC Shrinkhala Sharma.

“In one particularly heartbreaking case under the jurisdiction of Karaya Police Station, I had the privilege of being part of a team that rescued a young girl who had been subjected to unimaginable abuse by her own father. Along with her, we also ensured the safety of her little sister, sparing her from the same brutality. Today, I am filled with immense relief and hope as I see the girl thriving in a respected organisation, while her sister prepares with determination for her Board exams.

This experience stands as a testament to what Kolkata Police is all about – being there for our citizens, day in and day out, through both the darkest times and the brightest. It is moments like these that remind us of the power of community and the profound impact of standing together in the face of adversity. Today, we continue our work by empowering young women with self-defence workshops, because awareness and education are essential in preventing violence. Every step forward is a step toward a safer, stronger society.”

The Taltala Women Police Station operates as a united, compassionate team, wholeheartedly dedicated to serving and protecting the community. It is the goal of every team member that they can offer support and make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. They also hope that Taltala will not only continue to uphold these values but will also set a benchmark for other women police stations across the country. Together, they aim to lead by example, proving that empathy, dedication, and collaboration are the pillars of effective service in law enforcement.

Team PROTECTOR

The Headquarter Traffic Guard is one of the most pivotal units under the jurisdiction of the Kolkata Traffic Police, ensuring smooth vehicular movement and time-sensitive assistance in the heart of the city. It covers a total area of approximately 4.62 square km. This unit plays a crucial role in managing the intricate traffic dynamics of Central Kolkata, an area that witnesses heavy footfall due to its administrative, commercial, and historical significance.

The Headquarter Traffic Guard oversees some of Kolkata’s most iconic heritage landmarks, many of which date back to the colonial era, and continues to serve as vital administrative and financial hubs. Notable structures within its jurisdiction include Raj Bhavan – the official residence of the Governor of West Bengal, a heritage structure from the British era; Writers’ Building – the historic Secretariat building of the State Government which is presently undergoing renovation; Calcutta High Court – one of the oldest High Courts in India, established in 1862; Kolkata Police Headquarters (Lalbazar) – the nerve centre of law enforcement in the city; Calcutta Stock Exchange – a crucial financial institution; Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Kolkata Branch – a key institution governing monetary policies in the region, and numerous banks and financial institutions.

Apart from its administrative importance, this area is home to some of Kolkata’s largest and oldest commercial districts. Key business zones include Canning Street (Biplabi Rashbehari Bose Road) – a major hub for wholesale trade, dealing in textiles, electronics, and household goods; Rabindra Sarani – famous for its bustling markets, particularly in metalware, chemicals, and traditional Bengali goods; the renowned electronics and hardware market – Chandni Chowk, plus several other wholesale markets that supply goods across the State and to a large portion of Eastern India.

A Legacy of Traffic Management in Kolkata

The Headquarter Traffic Guard is the oldest traffic guard under the jurisdiction of the Kolkata Traffic Police. Its rich history dates back to the mid-20th century, and it continues to be the cornerstone of Kolkata’s traffic enforcement.

Historical Evolution

Police archival records show that the Headquarter Traffic Guard has been operational since 1953. However, its roots trace even further back, as the building that houses it was originally known as Lalkin Guard. This facility served as a barrack and mess for Constables of the erstwhile Calcutta Police. The term “Lalkin” is believed to be derived from “Lal Dighi”, also called the Tank Square or Dalhousie Square, the historic man-made water tank in the heart of the city.

During 1952-1953, Sergeant R.D. Pandey was assigned as the Officer-in-Charge (O.C.) of the Traffic Guard.

In 1958, Inspector Narsdon Oliver Knight became the first Officer-in-Charge of this Traffic Guard, holding the rank of Inspector of Police.

Growth of the Kolkata Traffic Police

Between 1960 and 1970, Kolkata Traffic Police had six traffic guards, namely, Headquarter Traffic Guard, Jorabagan Traffic Guard, Shyambazar Traffic Guard, South Traffic Guard, East Traffic Guard, and South-West Traffic Guard.

Infrastructure and Location

The Headquarter Traffic Guard operates from 32/A, Brabourne Road, Kolkata – 700001. Before 1951, the building was a single-story structure. As per details, in 1952-1953, the building was requisitioned and hired by the Calcutta Police, marking its official integration into the city’s law enforcement framework. In 2019, a major renovation of the building commenced to upgrade its facilities.

Operational Expansion

To enhance its operational efficiency, the Headquarter Traffic Guard expanded its presence.

In 2005, an outpost was established at Sidhu Kanu Dahar, equipped with modern technological facilities. This outpost functions as a satellite unit of the main office on Biplabi Maharaj Sarani, further strengthening traffic enforcement in Central Kolkata.

Officer-in-Charge, Headquarter Traffic Guard, Kanchan Hazra: A Journey of Dedication and Service

Born and raised in Niyamatpur, near Kulti in present-day Paschim Bardhaman, OC Kanchan Hazra is a testament to unwavering dedication and commitment to service. His journey into law enforcement is a story of single-minded focus and perseverance.

“I always wanted to join the Force. In fact, I never appeared for any other competitive examination in my life. After my Higher Secondary examination, I first applied for a job in the Indian Air Force. Later, I responded to an advertisement for multiple vacancies in the Central Police Organisation (CPO).

I completed my graduation from Asansol College and, in 1995, appeared for the post of Sergeant. That decision changed my life forever. Now, as I approach 30 years in service, I take immense pride in my profession every single day.”

A Career Spanning Nearly Three Decades

Kanchan Hazra’s career trajectory reflects a wealth of experience across different divisions of the Kolkata Police. He began his career in the Reserve Force, where he served for a brief period before moving into active traffic management. His first major assignment in the Traffic Department – South West Traffic Guard – where he worked for six years, provided him with hands-on experience in managing one of Kolkata’s busiest traffic corridors. This was followed by an eight-year stint at Wireless Control. It was one of the most defining phases of his career. He says: “Although I have spent most of my career in the Traffic Department, my experience with Wireless Control remains strongly etched in my memory. Back then, alongside the Traffic Police, the Wireless Department functioned as a first responder. There was a fully operational wireless wing, which has now been diversified for better management.”

The Nabanna Transition

With the establishment of Nabanna as the administrative headquarters of the West Bengal government, a significant shift in governance infrastructure took place. This transition necessitated the creation of a new outpost to manage traffic and security in the area, ensuring smooth movement for government officials, ministers, and other dignitaries.

Kanchan Hazra was entrusted with overseeing the new outpost’s operations. He stated, “It was indeed a challenging task for our team. First and foremost, Nabanna was traditionally outside the jurisdiction of the Kolkata Police, so the entire adjustment required careful planning and execution. Additionally, with the administrative shift, all ministers, representatives, and high-ranking officials had to travel to Nabanna regularly. Given the importance and challenges of this transition, we worked as a strong, coordinated team and succeeded in our efforts.”

A Legacy of Leadership in Kolkata’s Traffic Management

While managing the Mandirtala Outpost, Kanchan Hazra carried an additional responsibility-serving as the Additional Officer-in-Charge (OC) of the Vidyasagar Traffic Guard. His ability to multitask and efficiently handle high-pressure situations made him a key figure in Kolkata’s traffic policing framework.

In 2016, Kanchan Hazra was appointed as the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of the Jadavpur Traffic Guard where his leadership brought about significant infrastructural and operational improvements. The Jadavpur Traffic Guard received a complete makeover with the construction of a new building adjacent to the Jadavpur Police Station. One of his biggest challenges was regulating vehicular movement in and around South City Mall, one of South Kolkata’s busiest commercial hubs. His strategic planning helped ease congestion and improve commuter safety. He also played a pivotal role in the construction of the subway near the Jadavpur 8B Bus Stand, which provided safer pedestrian movement. He was also instrumental in ensuring that the approach road to Gariahat Road was widened and improved thereby reducing bottlenecks in the high-traffic corridor.

In 2022, after years of impactful service across various divisions, Kanchan Hazra was transferred to the Headquarter Traffic Guard where he became its Officer-in-Charge. Sharing his thoughts about his latest posting, Hazra says: “Considering the jurisdiction of our Traffic Guard, we work around the clock to ensure smooth passage of vehicles. The high-density population, narrow lanes, and increasing vehicular traffic do not make the task easy. We believe in a modern, scientific approach to traffic policing where the comfort of pedestrians and commuters is not compromised. At the same time, road safety and security remain our top priority.”

Commitment to Emergency Response

Throughout his distinguished career in the Kolkata Traffic Police, Kanchan Hazra has witnessed and responded to numerous critical incidents, often taking direct action in rescue operations. His proactive approach and quick thinking have saved lives in high-pressure situations.

“My colleagues are aware that I always keep a crowbar and a chopper in my car for rescue purposes,” he shares, underscoring his readiness for emergencies. One such dramatic rescue occurred during his tenure at the Mandirtala Outpost where a Tata Ace (Chota Hathi) was involved in a severe collision, leaving the driver trapped as the steering column had wedged tightly against him. Time was running out for the fire brigade to arrive and extricate him safely. A quick-thinking Kanchan Hazra used his crowbar to bend the steering, successfully freeing the driver and ensuring his survival.

In another recent incident, his prompt action saved a driver who had fallen unconscious inside a locked vehicle. Hazra used his crowbar and chopper to break the glass, enabling a rapid rescue. The driver was swiftly rushed to the hospital, receiving timely medical attention.

A Midnight Rescue

In another incident, a few years ago, on a stormy night, Kanchan Hazra was returning home in his Tata Sumo when torrential rain lashed the city. Just as he approached the Majherhat Flyover, he noticed a car with its backlight on, motionless in the downpour. Something felt off. His instinct told him to stop. Drenched in rain, he approached the vehicle and found a man in the driver’s seat, visibly distressed. His car had broken down, and inside were his wife, children, and elderly parents—stranded in the middle of the night with no way to get home. Without hesitation, Hazra arranged for a breakdown van and offered the stranded family his vehicle, ensuring they reached their home safely in Sarsuna. Though he reached home way past 1:00 a.m., he did not feel inconvenienced but felt a deep sense of satisfaction. He says, “The police uniform gives us such opportunities to stand by citizens in their hour of need.”

Navigating Agitation and Stress in Law Enforcement

In an era where patience and perseverance are crucial for handling high-pressure situations, the aftermath of the RG Kar incident proved to be a litmus test of the resilience of the Head Quarter Traffic Guard personnel. Hazra recalled, “Believe me, it wasn’t easy. We faced numerous situations where processions and protests occurred simultaneously, requiring our constant vigilance. In one incident, we found ourselves surrounded by a group of agitated individuals who were angry about the traffic jam. We relied on patience, maintained our composure, and worked to de-escalate the situation. Years of experience have taught me that keeping a cool head is often the best solution.”

There is immense mental strain that comes with police work. Hazra strongly advocates for a simple and balanced approach to stress management. “Managing stress is an essential skill that every officer must develop to thrive in this profession. It is crucial to maintain a structured lifestyle, balanced diet, and good physical fitness. On days when I am not on morning shifts, I make it a priority to jog and perform physical drills in the Maidan area. A healthy lifestyle is important for everyone, but it is especially vital for those in uniform; it is a necessity.”