Why is the Bengal Police Under Fire from the Calcutta HC Over Inaction Against a Female Officer?
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Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court has raised serious concerns over the West Bengal Police's handling of a case involving a female officer accused of bribery. As the court demands accountability, the implications of this situation could reshape public trust in law enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- The Calcutta High Court criticized the West Bengal Police for inaction.
- A female officer is accused of soliciting a bribe from a citizen.
- There is a call for accountability under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
- The court has demanded a response from the state government by September 22.
- This case raises questions about public trust in law enforcement.
Kolkata, Sep 19 (NationPress) - On Friday, the West Bengal Police found themselves in hot water with the Calcutta High Court's division bench, which criticized them for their failure to take disciplinary measures against a female officer from the Tarakeswar Police Station in Hooghly district, who is accused of soliciting a bribe from a citizen.
The bench, comprising Justice Debangshu Basak and Justice Shabbar Rashidi, questioned why the police department had not acted under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, and why no FIR had been filed against the officer.
Despite the officer's department issuing a show-cause notice in response to the bribery allegations, the bench noted that the show-cause document did not reference the alleged bribe.
The state government counsel argued that, in addition to the show-cause notice, the officer had been suspended, and an internal investigation was initiated on September 17.
During the proceedings, the public prosecutor stated that the officer was required to justify why her services should not be terminated due to the bribery allegations. Additionally, she is facing charges of negligence and dereliction of duty, as reported by the government counsel. However, the bench rejected this argument, asserting that the officer's actions constituted a serious breach of trust as a law enforcement officer.
The division bench has mandated the state government to provide a conclusive report on the matter by September 22. Based on this information, the court will determine the next steps in the case.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the broader implications this case holds for public trust in law enforcement. The accountability of police personnel is essential to maintaining integrity within the justice system. The Calcutta High Court's intervention reflects a pressing need for transparency and action against corruption.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What actions have been taken against the accused officer?
The officer has been suspended, and a departmental probe was initiated on September 17.
What is the significance of the Prevention of Corruption Act in this case?
The court questioned why proceedings under the Prevention of Corruption Act had not been initiated against the officer for the bribery allegations.
When is the state government required to respond to the court?
The state government must provide a conclusive report by September 22.
