Siliguri’s new identity was successfully crafted by IPS Gaurav Sharma. His actions restored optimism to this picturesque West Bengal town, although he is no longer employed there after being recently transferred to Bidhannagar.
In May 2021, Gaurav Sharma took control of the Siliguri Police Commissioner position. He was serving when the Corona epidemic was at its worst, busted multiple drug lords, and improved public perception of the Police Department by leading from the front.
Many drug dealers were imprisoned when he served as the commissioner of Siliguri. He was effective in seizing several illicit drugs, alcohol, and toxins. Before he arrived, Siliguri was in serious difficulties as a result of the growing drug influx, so the measures he took to keep criminal activities under control are noteworthy and commendable. Throughout his brief stay, he transformed Siliguri.
With assistance from the SPC Traffic Unit, road marking was completed in several locations while keeping the general public’s safety in mind. He launched a beautification initiative in numerous areas of the city to make it cleaner and more attractive. Through the establishment of “Canteen on Wheels,” the Siliguri Police Commissionerate fed those in need. The Siliguri Police Mobile Canteen provides food to all of the on-duty police officers in addition to the town’s less fortunate residents.
Big events were planned during his administration, including “Khela Hobe Diwas,” which featured a one-day women’s football championship. He opened new traffic guard offices in Jalpai More and Bagdogra. He pioneered the use of vehicle tracking technology based on the Digital 100 Dial System. Additionally, he established various initiatives in the community to raise awareness of cybercrime, and on the eve of Durga Shasti, he organized a “Puja Parikrama” for senior citizens. On this particular occasion, he visited the homes of several senior citizens who are “Samman” members to meet them.
The Tejasvini Women’s Safety Squad was established in Siliguri. The squad was established to protect women, and in that capacity, female combat-trained officers and forces were recruited. The squad has been nicknamed “Winners” by the honorable Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee, who applauded this initiative. A project called “Samman-er-Baari” was launched in collaboration with the Uttarayon Rotary Club, providing a comfortable setting and basic medical services to all senior citizens who are participants in the “Samman” initiative.
In Siliguri, in the presence of Gaurav Sharma, the state’s chief minister launched the “Utsarga” blood donation camp, which had a large turnout of police officers. Even now, numerous camps are organised and successfully operating.
Additionally, he established free computer education and E-Siksha. Through a new initiative dubbed “Baghini,” women over 17 were taught self-defence skills and were made aware of their legal rights through a variety of workshops. To effectively maintain law and order, more than 400 CCTV cameras were installed across the town.
In addition, Gaurav Sharma highlighted the health sector, emphasising that police officers must be in good physical and mental condition. He encouraged every official to be fit and established a gym at the Bhaktinagar Police Station.
From school-age youngsters to senior citizens, Gaurav Sharma won the respect of all age groups. After his transfer, it is now the residents of Siliguri’s obligation to uphold the town’s decorum.
