Manoj Verma has been appointed as the new Police Commissioner of Kolkata by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, replacing Vineet Kumar Goyal. Goyal, the former commissioner, has been transferred to the role of Additional Director General (ADG) and Inspector General of Police (IGP) of the Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal Police. The change comes amidst ongoing protests in the state.
Born on September 30, 1968, in Sawai Madhopur, Rajasthan, Verma joined the Indian Police Service (IPS) in 1998. He trained at the National Police Academy in Hyderabad and was assigned to the West Bengal cadre. Over the years, he has held several key positions, including Superintendent of Police in West Midnapore and Inspector General of Police in Darjeeling until 2019. Earlier this year, Verma served as Additional Director General and Inspector General of Police, overseeing law and order in West Bengal.
Verma is known for his experience in handling sensitive areas, such as Jangalmahal, where he worked for several years in Naxalite-affected regions. In 2022, he took on the role of Inspector General of the Anti-Corruption Branch, solidifying his reputation as a competent and trustworthy officer.
His appointment comes at a critical time, as West Bengal is dealing with the aftermath of a tragic incident at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. On August 9, an on-duty trainee doctor was brutally raped and murdered, sparking widespread protests by junior doctors across the state. Protesters demanded the resignation of Vineet Goyal and other officials involved. Allegations of bribery from the victim’s family further escalated tensions, leading to Goyal’s removal.
Now, Manoj Verma faces the dual challenge of addressing these ongoing protests and ensuring public safety during the upcoming Durga Puja festivities, a crucial time for the state. His experience and leadership will be tested as he navigates this turbulent period in Kolkata’s law enforcement.
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