State police to deploy 15,000 extra personnel for Durga Puja
The Statesman | 21 September 2025Additional 10,000 to 15,000 police personnel will be deployed across districts starting from Mahalaya, which marks the beginning of the festive season. The deployment will cover not just the four days of Puja but also the carnivals that follow, said additional director general (law and order) Javed Shamim.
“From security at different ghats on Mahalaya to managing the rush of visitors during Puja days, we are ready,” Shamim told reporters. “Police deployment has been made district-wise depending on the scale of festivities. Alongside the force from headquarters, home guards, NCC cadets, and local volunteers will also be roped in.”
Traffic management will be a key focus during the fortnight-long celebrations that stretch beyond Durga Puja to Lakshmi Puja, he said. “Durga Puja is the biggest festival for Bengalis. Ensuring the safety of visitors is our responsibility. We are prepared to give everyone a safe and enjoyable Puja,” Shamim said. The Kolkata metropolitan area will see the largest deployment, but police officials are also giving special attention to suburban districts where large crowds gather. Mr Shamim cited Ranaghat in Nadia district as an example, pointing to the popular Puja at Kalyani ITI crossing and the large-scale celebration planned by Abhijan Sangha this year.
“Ranaghat draws a huge crowd. But when the homework is done in advance, crowd management is not a problem,” he said.
After the main festivities conclude, carnivals showcasing idols from major pujas will be held in Kolkata and across districts. Police said those days also attract heavy footfall, requiring additional security and traffic control measures.
“Carnivals are as important as Puja days when it comes to law and order. We will ensure adequate deployment to prevent any untoward incident,” Shamim said. Authorities expect record crowds this year as Durga Puja approaches its first anniversary since UNESCO recognised it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
