India celebrated her 63^rd Independence Day and Kolkata Police took active part in the celebration. The flag hoisting ceremony at Lal Bazar was presided over by Shri Gautam Mohan Chakrabarti, Commissioner of Police, Kolkata Police. The patriotic sacrifices of popular and unsung heroes were revisited by the speech of the Commissioner of Police and motivation was instilled in everyone’s heart and mind – to strive, to endeavour for a better, safer and secure India. Kolkata, the City of Joy, had been immensely active in India’s freedom struggle and we believe that it is our duty and responsibility to make this city a City of Joy indeed.

Independence Day is not only a day of historical value in India but also a day which culminated in the sacrifices of innumerable youth and aged. The oppression of the British rule ended, but is our society really independent? It is a question that calls for reflection – reflection of our conscience, our emotions, psyche and patriotism, on our daily lives. It is true that the word ‘patriotism’ comes to our mind when the calendar comes to a halt on the 15^th of August and 26^th of January. Television channels and daily newspapers are flooded with the patriotic elements of media and press. But what about the rest of the year? Why does the thought of independence and India not dawn on our daily lives? It is hard to find such answers. However, it does not mean that India has less number of patriots. Any and every man who is proud to be an Indian is a true patriot! Our country is moving up the global ladder of progress and development at quite a fast pace, then why is there brain-drain, intra-country terror threats, corruption and honour killings? It is high time that we realize the importance and pride of being an Indian –  citizens of a country that is culturally rich, powerfully strong and spiritually superior. We have to understand that we are all Indians before we are Bengalis, Maharashtrians, Punjabis, Biharis and so forth.

It is time for the society to recognize and respect the sacrifices of the Indian Defence personnel and police forces and common men who have laid down there lives for the country. A country can reach its zenith of progress and development only when there is mutual understanding, respect and co-operation of the guardians of law and the common citizens. We appeal to all true Indians to come forward and join hands with us, to make our motherland reign supreme and to restore her past days of glory.

Kolkata Police kept its vigil on the city and there were no security lapses on the Independence Day. The railway stations, metro railway stations, airport and traffic were held under strong and alert security wraps. Safety was ensured to all the the citizens of Kolkata. Kolkata Police was alert on duty and Kolkata experienced a safe, secure and joyful Independence Day.

Come let us pledge this very moment, let us be active today to ensure a safe tomorrow. India is great and a nation’s greatness lies in its citizens. Come, let us prove ourselves to be worthy Indians, let us free ourselves from the shackles of crime, terror, superstition, illiteracy and poverty. Let us join hands to serve our country and gift the next generation a secure, healthy, developed and prosperous India!              Now is the time for national upliftment!           Jai Hind!