Kolkata, 1 July (H.S.): The appointment of IPS officer Murli Dhar Sharma as the Commissioner of Barrackpore Police has triggered a visible transformation in one of West Bengal's most sensitive and crime-prone regions. Known for his exceptional balance between authority and empathy, Sharma's leadership has not only reinvigorated the police force but also sent a strong message to criminal elements operating in the area.
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Zero Tolerance for Crime, Responsibility Fixed on Officers
From his very first meeting, Commissioner Sharma made it unequivocally clear that there would be zero tolerance towards any kind of criminal activity. Whether it’s illegal sand mining, landfilling of water bodies, narcotics trafficking, gambling or the possession of illegal firearms—officers in charge of police stations have been told that any such activity in their jurisdiction would be considered their direct responsibility.
A senior official in the commissionerate confirmed that Sharma has warned all deputy commissioners and inspectors-in-charge (ICs) that preventing crime is now their personal accountability. The message is clear: failure to act will have administrative consequences. This directive has sparked a wave of heightened vigilance across police stations, triggering a proactive approach to law enforcement.
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Crackdown on Illegal Activities Gains Momentum
Located along the banks of the Ganges, Barrackpore has long struggled with unchecked illegal construction and unlawful operations. For over a decade, various administrative efforts failed to bring sustainable change. However, under Sharma's leadership, there is now a marked shift. Police have intensified actions against all forms of illegal activity, and the approach is beginning to yield results on the ground.
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Pending Cases to Be Resolved Swiftly
According to sources in the commissionerate, Sharma has instructed all police stations to expedite the resolution of long-pending cases through legally sound procedures. The police force is now functioning with a renewed focus on public service, aiming to improve both efficiency and credibility.
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Firm Yet Compassionate Leadership
Murli Dhar Sharma is widely respected not just for his operational firmness, but also for his compassionate outlook. During the COVID-19 crisis, he was instrumental in delivering aid to thousands of needy individuals—often responding to distress messages on social media in real-time. As the former head of the Special Task Force (STF), Sharma played a pivotal role in curbing organized crime and communal unrest in Kolkata. His leadership even drew praise from U.S. Congressional circles, where regional security strategies in South Asia were being discussed.
In his subsequent roles as Joint CP (Crime) and Additional CP in Kolkata Police, Sharma was key in ensuring the city’s consistent ranking among India’s safest metropolitan areas.
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Public Confidence on the Rise
A senior official posted at the state secretariat and residing in Barrackpore shared that Sharma's appointment has revived public confidence in law enforcement. “There’s a growing belief that the law is now actively working for the people, and wrongdoers will not be spared,” he said. Citizens are reportedly more willing to approach police stations, knowing that a responsive and people-centric officer is at the helm.
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A Harmonious Blend of Duty and Expression
Sharma is also a well-regarded poet and writer, with a strong following on social media. His ghazals and literary work have inspired thousands, making him a rare combination of administrative toughness and emotional intelligence. This duality enhances his connection with the public, reinforcing his image as an officer who leads not only with discipline but with heart.
Under his command, Barrackpore is witnessing a reassertion of law and order, with criminals retreating and citizens stepping forward. This evolving atmosphere is not just changing the face of policing in the area—it’s reinforcing faith in the rule of law.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
