The Kolkata police Monday made the verification of tenants and domestic help mandatory for residents in the wake of the murder of an older woman in New Garia allegedly by a woman caregiver and her accomplice.
The Kolkata police’s Facebook page posted an announcement, providing direct links for online submission of ‘Resident Tenant Verification’ and ‘Domestic Help Profile’ forms. The forms are also accessible through the Kolkata police’s ‘Bondhu’ app.
According to the post, this action is a crucial measure to prevent crimes such as theft, burglary, and fraud. The police said criminal elements could exploit unverified tenants or employees, and timely verification would significantly mitigate such risks.
The police highlighted that furnishing this information is mandatory as per a notification issued on July 24 by the commissioner of police, Kolkata, under Section 163 (power to issue order in urgent cases of nuisance or apprehended danger) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023.
The renewed focus on verification follows the New Garia incident, where a woman caregiver, who was hired just a few days prior, and her male accomplice allegedly killed a 79-year-old woman and robbed a flat. The police said the deceased woman’s husband was found with his hands and legs tied and semi-conscious under a bed.
The Kolkata police also have a feature for senior citizens called ‘Pranam’ on its website. This enables senior citizens, especially the 30 per cent who live alone, to register their names, phone numbers, and other details with the police.
The police expect that the new directive on mandatory verification will enhance vigilance over vulnerable citizens. The updated forms will be essential in gathering comprehensive information on nannies, caretakers, drivers, and tenants.
An official said that while a formal verification process is a step in the right direction, the ultimate success of this initiative will depend on strict enforcement and the cooperation of all citizens. Only time will tell if this renewed effort will significantly curb such crimes and create a safer environment for the city’s residents, said the official.
“We have urged all citizens to cooperate and promptly complete the verification process as their participation is key to creating a safer and more secure neighbourhood for everyone,” the official added.