Kolkata Police Steps Up Raids on Illegal Firecrackers Before Diwali

Kolkata: Lalbazar top brass, led by CP Ajay Nand, has ordered all police stations to step up vigilance in local markets where illegal crackers usually begin to get sold 48 to 72 hours prior to Diwali.The vigilance will be carried out not just on bikes, but even in autos which are usually hired on Kali Puja day. “This time, we propose to carry out raids across smaller markets 48 hours prior to Diwali. We have asked our officers to target loose firecrackers, most of which are illegal. In addition, cops on the ground have been asked to use their sources to increase firearm seizures from godowns,” said a joint CP.At the Esplanade Bazi bazaar on Wednesday, CP Nand said separate teams have been formed to handle violations at high-rises. “We will meet the high-rise committee members and ask them to ensure all rules. Dedicated teams have been formed for this purpose,” said Nand.Pushed to act, the cops have stated that they would invoke BNS sections pertaining to disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant against those daring to disobey the SC ruling on bursting of non-green crackers or bursting crackers beyond permissible hours. Kolkata Police has decided to invoke an additional section under the firecracker component of the Kolkata Police Act if anyone is found possessing banned crackers.“In case of use of banned crackers, we might not provide bail from police stations depending on the nature of offence. If required, we will produce the offender in court from where they have to seek bail,” said a senior officer of the south division.Announcing the possible legal action that might follow, KP stated that the accused can face prosecution even under the Explosive Substances Act (leading to a criminal case and a possible jail term of three years) or prosecution under Section 188 of the , which can attract a jail term of six months.You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Kolkata | Silver Rate in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata | Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Petrol Price in Kolkata | Diesel Price in Kolkata | CNG Price in Kolkata | LPG Price in KolkataStay updated with the latest Kolkata news. Download the TOI App.