EC removes Kalighat OC with immediate effect after ‘status with gun’ goes viral

The officer-in-charge of Kalighat Police Station has been suspended following a controversy over a viral photograph showing him holding a firearm in uniform. Gautam Das was removed from his post after the issue drew sharp criticism, with the Election Commission of India taking action. He has been replaced by Chameli Mukhopadhyay, who was previously serving as officer-in-charge of the Ultadanga Women’s Police Station.

The controversy began after a photograph of Gautam Das surfaced on social media, showing him holding a firearm with a caption that read, “Ready for a new assignment.” The image quickly went viral, triggering widespread concern and criticism over the conduct and propriety of a serving police officer posing with a weapon in such a manner.

A formal complaint was submitted to the Chief Electoral Officer’s office by state vice-president Joyprakash Majumdar, questioning whether the officer was adequately trained to handle the firearm. The complaint described the image as “not only alarming but also legally objectionable,” pointing out that the officer appeared to be aiming a modern weapon at someone. The All India Trinamool Congress also demanded action. Following the backlash, authorities suspended Gautam Das and appointed Chameli Mukhopadhyay to take charge of the Kalighat Police Station on an interim basis.