Kolkata’s festive lights turned grim on Mahalaya night after a tragic hit-and-run claimed the life of a policeman on duty.
Constable Jyotish Debnath (48) of Eco Park police station was out on routine night patrol on Sunday when disaster struck. Around Gate No. 2 of Eco Park in Salt Lake, a speeding car ploughed into him and another officer while they were patrolling on bicycles. Witnesses said the vehicle was being driven recklessly along the service lane.
“Debnath was flung to the road, his belongings scattered in the impact. Locals rushed both policemen to a nearby private hospital, where doctors declared Debnath dead on arrival. The second policeman is under treatment,” said a police officer.
The offending car fled the scene immediately after the collision. Police have begun examining CCTV footage from the area in search of the vehicle and its driver.
Every year, the festive season in Kolkata sees a spike in road mishaps caused by over speeding. Despite campaigns like “Safe Drive Save Life,” the number of accidents and fatalities continues to rise.
This time, the victim was one of the city’s own protectors. The incident not only exposes the menace of reckless driving during the Puja season but also raises troubling questions about the safety of those who safeguard others.
Also read: First batch of Padma ilish reaches Kolkata ahead of Durga Puja
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