Who is Investigating the Theft of Bula Chowdhury's Padma Shri Award?
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Synopsis
The theft of Bula Chowdhury's prestigious Padma Shri award has led to a CID investigation, raising questions about the safety measures in place. Chowdhury, a celebrated swimmer, has expressed her disappointment towards local authorities for failing to protect her valuable accolades.
Key Takeaways
- Bula Chowdhury is a renowned swimmer and award recipient.
- The CID is investigating the theft of her prestigious awards.
- The incident raises questions about local police effectiveness.
- Chowdhury's family has faced multiple robbery attempts.
- Community safety is a critical concern in this case.
Kolkata, Aug 16 (NationPress) The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the West Bengal Police has taken on the critical responsibility of looking into the theft of the prestigious Padma Shri award belonging to the renowned former Indian swimmer and Arjuna Award recipient, Bula Chowdhury.
The incident occurred on Friday at Chowdhury's ancestral home in Hind-Motor, located in the Hooghly district, where not only her Padma Shri award was stolen but several other awards, trophies, and medals as well.
Initial investigations suggest that the theft could have been executed by local individuals who had been surveilling the house for an extended period, waiting for the opportune moment.
According to sources within the state police, a few individuals have already been summoned for questioning regarding the theft.
Although Chowdhury, who served as a CPI-M legislator from 2006 to 2011, currently resides in Kasba, South Kolkata, most of her accolades from her swimming career were prominently displayed at her ancestral abode.
She routinely visited the residence to ensure that her awards were well-preserved. However, on Friday, she found her Padma Shri award shield missing from its designated spot.
It was later revealed that additional trophies and medals had also been stolen.
Chowdhury and her relatives have expressed that the theft could have been avoided if local police had shown greater diligence in safeguarding the property, especially with so many valuable items stored there.
“I worked tirelessly to earn those medals. Now, most of them are gone. My question for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is, why couldn't the police prevent this robbery?” Chowdhury remarked on Friday.
Milan Chowdhury, the swimmer's brother who also resides at the Hind-Motor house, mentioned that there have been three previous robbery attempts at the residence. “Each time, police complaints were lodged, and investigations followed, but the robbery attempts persisted. At one point, a police presence was established, but it was withdrawn after a while,” he noted.
Point of View
I believe this incident underscores the critical need for effective law enforcement in protecting citizens' properties, especially when they hold significant cultural and personal value. The CID's involvement is a step toward accountability, but the community deserves answers and assurances.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What awards were stolen from Bula Chowdhury?
The stolen items include Bula Chowdhury's Padma Shri award, along with several other trophies and medals she received during her swimming career.
Who is responsible for investigating the theft?
The investigation has been entrusted to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the West Bengal Police.
Where did the theft occur?
The theft took place at Chowdhury's ancestral home in Hind-Motor, Hooghly district.
What concerns has Bula Chowdhury raised?
Chowdhury has expressed disappointment in local authorities for failing to ensure the safety of her valuable awards.
How many robbery attempts have occurred at the residence?
There have been three previous robbery attempts reported at the Hind-Motor residence.
