Suvendu Adhikari's Strategic Visit to Lalbazar Boosts Kolkata's Security Measures

West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari on Tuesday visited Lalbazar, the Kolkata Police headquarters, for the first time after assuming office and held discussions on a range of administrative and security-related issues, a senior bureaucrat said.

Apart from law and order, Adhikari, who also holds the home portfolio, reviewed matters related to city security, police modernisation, recruitment and infrastructure development at the headquarters, the official said.

He held discussions with senior police officers, including Police Commissioner Ajay Nand, on deployment strategy and surveillance measures ahead of the festive season.

''The CM reviewed preparedness in sensitive pockets and stressed the importance of prompt response and public confidence-building measures,'' the official said.

Issues related to ongoing renovation and development work within the Lalbazar complex were also discussed during the meeting.

The visit assumes significance as Eid-ul-Zuha (Bakrid) is scheduled to be observed on Thursday, with security arrangements across Kolkata and adjoining areas expected to be tightened.

Senior police officers received Adhikari upon her arrival at Lalbazar, where preparations had been underway since morning following intimation of his visit.

A senior state government official said the CM directed officers to maintain ''maximum vigil'' in the run-up to Bakrid and ensure peaceful celebrations across the metropolis.

''He emphasised the need for close coordination among all wings of the police force and asked officers to remain alert to any attempt to disturb communal harmony,'' the official told PTI.

Incidentally, since taking charge as CM, Adhikari has repeatedly conveyed a message of ''zero tolerance'' against corruption and criminal activities, with police units across the state being asked to strengthen enforcement measures.

(With inputs from agencies.)