Kolkata, 20 July (H.S.) : The Kolkata Police has prohibited the use of earphones and headphones by police personnel while on duty, warning that any violation of the directive will invite strict departmental action. Instructions have been issued to all police stations and senior officers across the city to ensure compliance.

The order, issued on the directions of Police Commissioner Ajay Nand, states that no police personnel will be allowed to use earphones or headphones while performing official duties.

Confirming the development on Monday morning, a senior Kolkata Police officer said that authorities had recently noticed several personnel watching videos on their mobile phones or listening to music through earphones during duty hours. Such practices were found to affect their alertness and reduce their ability to respond promptly to emergencies, prompting the department to introduce the ban.

The police have made it clear that personnel violating the order will face strict disciplinary action. Surveillance has also been intensified to prevent negligence during duty and ensure quicker responses to emergencies.

Earlier, the Kolkata Police had issued another directive prohibiting personnel from performing official duties in plain clothes, except those attached to designated specialised units.

The move is part of the state government's broader initiative to strengthen discipline and improve the efficiency of the police force. As part of the ongoing reforms, emphasis is being placed on modernising the police, enhancing operational efficiency and enforcing stricter discipline. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari had recently urged police personnel to focus on physical fitness and announced plans to recruit 20,000 additional personnel across the state over the next six months to one year.

Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh