Kolkata: A traffic sergeant on duty, Animesh Biswas, attached to the East Traffic Guard, was allegedly wrongfully restrained, verbally abused, and physically assaulted by a two-wheeler rider during a joint naka checking session on Friday. The incident occurred at the intersection of Jhowtala Road and Nasiruddin Road near Beckbagan, leading to the immediate arrest of the accused, identified as Shahbin Laden.
Details of the Incident
According to police reports, a joint naka check was being conducted by the traffic police department starting from 2pm to regulate traffic and check violations. Around 6pm, the accused rider approached the checkpoint. When signaled to stop, he initially fled the scene while hurling abuses at the deployed police personnel. However, after a short while, Laden, a resident of Haji Bagan Road in the Entally area, returned to the intersection.
Escalation and Assault
Witnesses stated that the accused aggressively advanced toward the police team, shouting obscenities and standing directly in front of the officers. When Sergeant Biswas attempted to intervene and asked Laden to stop, the situation turned violent. Laden allegedly shoved the officer and tried to snatch away his belongings. As the altercation escalated, a large crowd of onlookers began to gather at the spot, threatening to disrupt law and order.
Arrest and Legal Action
To defuse the situation and prevent further breakdown of peace, Laden was immediately detained and sent to the Karaya police station. Once the traffic flow at the major intersection was normalized, the injured sergeant proceeded to the police station to lodge a formal complaint. This led to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) for criminal restraint and obstructing a public servant from performing duty.
Broader Implications
The incident has reignited discussions regarding the safety of law enforcement officers on Kolkata's roads and the pressing need for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. Police officials noted that managing traffic and maintaining public order remains a persistent challenge at spots where special action nakas are being conducted. Following the incident, senior officers appealed to the public to comply with traffic rules and respect on-duty officers.
