DGP Rajeev Kumar Delivers Powerful Farewell Address in Kolkata
In an emotionally charged farewell ceremony held in Kolkata on Thursday, outgoing West Bengal Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Kumar delivered a profound reflection on courage, duty, and collective strength, just two days before his superannuation. The veteran police officer, who has served with distinction, emphasized that true courage is not merely about physical action but about unwavering conviction and standing firm by one's principles.
Courage Defined by Conscience, Not Criticism
"Courage is not always about action or shooting at or beating up people, it's about standing firm," declared DGP Kumar during his address. He insisted that following one's conscience is as crucial as adhering to the law, stating that external opinions hold little weight compared to internal moral compass. "What people say on social media or on television does not matter. Our work is the final word. My conscience will tell me whether I am right or wrong. True courage speaks from within," he asserted, urging his colleagues not to be distracted by criticism.
Successor Appointment Mired in Legal Uncertainty
The farewell ceremony unfolded against a backdrop of administrative ambiguity, as the West Bengal government has yet to name Kumar's successor. The state government had included Kumar in a panel of eight IPS officers submitted to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) following a Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT) order. However, UPSC did not shortlist the list to three candidates as directed by CAT, opting instead to approach the Delhi High Court, thereby delaying the appointment of Bengal's next DGP and creating a legal imbroglio.
Guard of Honour and Reflections on Strategic Importance
During the ceremony, DGP Kumar was accorded a guard of honour by three units of the Bengal Police, a fitting tribute to his years of service. In his speech, he repeatedly lauded his colleagues, highlighting West Bengal's strategic and geopolitical significance. "Our state is very important strategically and geopolitically. We share our borders with three nations — Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal. The problems affecting these countries often get felt here. If something happens in the Northeast, it affects our state," he noted, underscoring the interconnected challenges faced by the force.
Proud Legacy in Tackling Naxalism and Maintaining Order
Kumar reminded the gathering of Bengal Police's commendable efforts in combating Naxalism, a feat achieved through immense sacrifice. "We are the only police force that tackled Naxal challenge twice. This was not overcome without sacrifice. More than 250 people gave their lives. I am especially referring to the second time (that we dealt with the challenge)," he stated, honoring the fallen officers. He also praised the force's excellence in maintaining law and order, particularly during large-scale events like Durga Puja and Gangasagar, where meticulous crowd control prevented loss of lives, a point of pride for the state.
Unity and Collective Effort as Core Strengths
Emphasizing the importance of every member of the police force, Kumar said, "You are one of the best police forces in the country. That is not just words. Every officer, the lowest-ranked constable, civic volunteers, home guards, all play their respective roles. Their role is as important as any senior officer. Our strength lies in being together. Separately, we are no one. We are together in both Bengal Police and Kolkata Police." He positioned the police as a civil service akin to the armed forces, ready to sacrifice in the line of duty, and expressed pride in this noble calling.
Final Words on Family and Personal Example
Concluding his speech, DGP Kumar highlighted the indispensable role of family and friends in supporting police personnel, using his own journey as an example. His heartfelt words resonated deeply, leaving a lasting impression on all attendees as he bid farewell to a distinguished career marked by resilience and dedication.
