Election Commission Suspends Kasba OC for Missing Sona Pappu from Criminals List
Synopsis
In a bold move, the Election Commission has suspended the OC of Kasba police station for failing to list notorious criminal Sona Pappu. This action comes as part of a broader directive to ensure law enforcement is prepared for upcoming elections in Kolkata.
Key Takeaways
Election Commission suspends Kasba OC for not including Sona Pappu in the criminals list.
Sona Pappu, involved in a recent clash, remains unarrested.
ED's search revealed Rs 2 crore and property documents at Pappu's residence.
Police are mandated to compile lists and execute warrants promptly.
Commission emphasizes the need for peace and order during elections.
Kolkata, April 5 (NationPress) The Election Commission has taken the significant step of suspending the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of the Kasba police station due to the failure to include Sona Pappu, also known as Biswajit Poddar, in the list of active criminals, according to an insider from the Commission.
In preparation for the upcoming Assembly elections, the Commission had instructed both the Kolkata Police and the state authorities to compile a list of absconding and declared criminals. Specific duties were assigned to the OCs of all police stations to ensure compliance. Consequently, the OC of Kasba police station was suspended for neglecting this directive.
Notably, Sona Pappu is connected to a recent altercation in the Rabindra Sarovar area of south Kolkata, yet he remains at large regarding the incident. The Enforcement Directorate (ED) conducted a search of his residence last Wednesday, seizing around Rs 2 crore, an expensive vehicle, and various property documents.
ED sources indicate that multiple FIRs have been filed against Sona Pappu, alongside numerous allegations of extortion and criminal intimidation. Reports suggest he oversees several syndicates operating in the Kasba and Ballygunge areas of south Kolkata.
The Commission has also mandated that Sub-Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs) ensure the execution of all non-bailable warrants and promptly compile lists of absconding criminals. Special operations are to be initiated to apprehend declared criminals, with the potential issuance of lookout circulars if necessary.
SDPOs are instructed to engage in regular discussions with neighboring subdivisions and districts’ police administrations to facilitate the sharing of crucial information.
Furthermore, the Commission has highlighted the importance of identifying areas prone to unrest within all Assembly constituencies through the OCs or Station House Officers (SHOs). Individuals with criminal backgrounds from previous elections should also be identified. These instructions are to be adhered to with utmost seriousness.
The Election Commission has laid down a total of 16 directives for police stations to follow in this regard. Investigations into all previous election-related crimes are to be expedited, non-bailable warrants should be executed without delay, and lists of absconding suspects compiled for immediate action. Proactive measures must be taken to ensure peace during the electoral process.
Point of View
The suspension of the Kasba OC underscores the Election Commission's commitment to maintaining law and order ahead of the elections. It illustrates the urgency of addressing criminal activity and ensuring that all relevant authorities are held accountable for their responsibilities.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Kasba OC suspended?
The Kasba OC was suspended for failing to include Sona Pappu's name in the list of active criminals as directed by the Election Commission.
What is Sona Pappu accused of?
Sona Pappu faces multiple allegations, including extortion and criminal intimidation, and is linked to various syndicates in Kolkata.
What directives did the Election Commission issue?
The Election Commission issued directives for police to compile lists of absconding criminals, execute non-bailable warrants swiftly, and ensure peace during elections.
What actions were taken by the Enforcement Directorate?
The Enforcement Directorate searched Sona Pappu's residence, recovering approximately Rs 2 crore, an expensive car, and property documents.
How is the police expected to prepare for the elections?
The police are instructed to identify trouble-prone areas, share information with neighboring police administrations, and take proactive measures to maintain order.
