After Diwali, Kolkata Police arrested 153 people. These cases include bursting banned firecrackers, possessing illegal liquor, and violating traffic rules. The administration has increased strictness to maintain pollution control and discipline in the city.
West Bengal: After Diwali in Kolkata, the police have taken strict action against lawbreakers. A total of 153 people were arrested in the city for indecent behavior and bursting banned firecrackers. The police stated that this action was taken to ensure peace, security, and environmental protection in the city.
Action Against Law Violators
A Kolkata Police official stated that in actions taken from Wednesday night to Thursday morning, 146 people were arrested for indecent behavior and 7 people for bursting banned firecrackers. Despite the ban, people were found bursting fireworks in several locations during Diwali, leading to an increase in both noise and air pollution.
Traffic Rule Violations
The night of Diwali was marked not just by firecrackers but also by traffic violations. Police reported that 383 traffic prosecutions were registered during this period. These included 85 cases of driving without a helmet, 37 cases of a pillion rider without a helmet, 73 cases of reckless driving, and 64 cases of drunk driving. Additionally, action was taken in 124 other cases.
Seizure of Banned Items
During this special operation, Kolkata Police seized 16.95 kilograms of banned firecracker materials and 14.4 liters of illegal liquor. Officials reported that in many places, people were consuming illegal alcohol and behaving inappropriately in public. Police stated that the seizure of these items would help control both crime and pollution in the city.
No Cases Related to Gambling
Police clarified that no arrests were made under any gambling-related offenses throughout this operation. The administration's focus this time remained primarily on violations involving firecrackers, alcohol, and traffic rules.
Pollution Control Efforts
Kolkata administration had issued an order banning prohibited firecrackers even before Diwali. This strictness was further increased following court directives. Nevertheless, rules were flouted in some areas, leading to a decline in the Air Quality Index. According to the Environment Department, air pollution reached dangerous levels in many parts of the city on Diwali night.
Police Appeal
Police have appealed to citizens to abide by the law during festivals and refrain from using pollution-causing firecrackers. Officials stated that Diwali is a festival of lights and joy, but its enjoyment should be taken responsibly. Police warned that strict legal action would be taken against future rule-breakers.
