Kolkata Police on top gear to ensure senior citizens’ safety

Kolkata, Aug 2 (IANS) In wake of the murder of an elderly couple in the city, Kolkata Police Commissioner Anuj Sharma has instructed officers to ensure maximum security of elderly citizens by maintaining proper data of vulnerable ones, an officer said on Friday.

Deputy Commissioners of various divisions were instructed to prepare a database and local police stations were issued directives accordingly.

"The officers of respective police stations started visiting the houses of the vulnerable senior citizens on Wednesday. Officers will keep a record of senior citizens who stay alone and ensure that their residence is under CCTV surveillance," he said.

A directive given to all officers in-charge states that they should maintain proper data of the elderly people and information about their nearby relatives, house help or any other regular visitors.

They will also audit all security measures like the presence of strong gates, if the house is located in an isolated place, etc. The elderly citizens are being briefed about a special Helpline number -- 9830088884 -- for them.

An elderly couple was found dead on Tuesday inside their house in Netajinagar area here. There were allegations that the couple were under huge pressure from their maid-servants and a promoter to sell off their property. Raising concern over the incident, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had promised a thorough investigation in the matter.

"I think that it is everyone's responsibility to see that no one is able to touch elderly couples' property".Police officers are visiting elderly couples to ensure their safety and working on maintaining proper data.