Kolkata: CM Mamata Banerjee on Friday warned against possible plans to spread communal disharmony and disturb law and order in the run-up to the festival season.
Speaking to reporters, she said, “There are some people in Kolkata who only have mischief (dustumi) on their minds. It was them who carried out the murder at Howrah (referring to the murder of a Howrah promoter in a café on Thursday), knowing the administration was busy with the cyclone. The police must use their brains and be tactful in tackling such issues. The STF, IB and police intelligence must be on guard,” she said.
She also asked cops to ensure that “mischief-makers” do not use the firecracker bursting season to cause explosions. Banerjee instructed the administration — and even Bengal and Kolkata Police — to ensure high mast lights are set up at all ghats, especially where Kali and Jagadhhatri idol immersions will take place. She called for similar arrangements during Chhath. She asked cops to restrict VIP movement at ghats during the festivals.
She also asked Kolkata Police, along with KMC and fire brigade, to meet Burrabazar traders and discuss fire safety measures following the recent fire in central Kolkata. “While you do trading, who will be responsible if a death happens? The Kolkata Police must ask them to take protective measures or tell them that they will step in,” said Banerjee.
She added, “The other day, while travelling, I found vehicles on narrow roads in a manner that no fire tender or ambulance could enter. One must realise that this is a danger for the residents. Cops must check this.”