The Odisha Police is preparing to unveil a treasure trove of history to the public. For decades, a remarkable collection of antique weapons, swords, and rare policing artifacts from the pre-Independence era has been carefully preserved away from public view. Now, with state government approval, these prized possessions will find a permanent home in a new police memorial and public museum in Bhubaneswar.
A Journey Through Policing History
The collection is a testament to the long and evolving history of law enforcement in the region. Odisha police was officially formed on April 1, 1936, coinciding with the state's formation. However, the artifacts tell a story that begins much earlier. "Our collection includes weapons dating back to 1803, when the British introduced a new system of policing," revealed a senior police officer. The initiative to preserve this legacy began in April 1996, with a small in-house museum at the police headquarters in Cuttack.
Under the proposal approved by the state government, initiated by Director General of Police (DGP) Y B Khurania, the new museum will be significantly expanded. It is likely to be established at the 7th Battalion campus near Nalco Square in Bhubaneswar. The museum will feature an interpretation centre and an amphitheatre, designed to reflect the treasures, traditions, and rich history of the Odisha Police as the force approaches its 90th anniversary in 2026.
Treasures from Across Continents and Centuries
The collection is a global assortment of law enforcement and military history. The weaponry on display spans continents, featuring firearms manufactured in the United States and the United Kingdom. Key highlights include:
- The classic .32 calibre Winchester model 94 gun, crafted in the US in 1894.
- The British Enfield .476 musket and the .455 Webley & Scott revolver from 1877.
- A single-barrel gun manufactured in London in 1925.
- Sentry single-barrel guns used by police in the princely states of Mayurbhanj and Gadajat between 1900 and 1925.
- A muzzle-loader gun seized from a criminal by Cuttack police in 1943.
- Six historic swords inscribed with 'Bayonet 15' and 'Bayonet 23' from the 16th century.
Perhaps the most historically significant item is a sword used by police during the Paika Rebellion of 1817, a pivotal uprising against British rule in Odisha's history.
Beyond Weapons: A Glimpse into the Past
The museum's appeal extends far beyond its impressive arsenal. It preserves a wide array of memorabilia that paints a vivid picture of police life through the ages. Visitors will be able to see:
- Ancient police uniforms, including a steel helmet, belt plate, twill cap, and cap badges.
- A distinctive chowkidar badge and old-model signal pistols.
- A German-made table clock from 1910 and an old radio transmission set.
- Historical maps outlining old police jurisdictions and rare photographs capturing pivotal events.
This move to create a public museum marks a significant step in democratizing access to a crucial part of Odisha's heritage. It transforms a privately held collection into an educational resource, allowing citizens and visitors to connect with the state's law enforcement history in a tangible way. As DGP Khurania emphasized, the new museum promises to expand the vision of the original collection, offering a comprehensive and engaging look at the evolution of policing in Odisha.
