It was a special day for 25 traffic cops as they were hailed as the ‘Unsung Heroes of Bangalore’ for going beyond their call of duty in managing the traffic chaos on the roads.
When the names of 25 cops from different traffic divisions were called out, it was a moment of pride for not only the unsung heroes as they strutted on the stage in their white uniforms to receive the first-of-its-kind awards, but also everyone present at the event organised by the Bangalore Political Action Committee (BPAC) in association with The World Peacekeepers Movement and Peace Autos.
A visibly elated Kumar, a police constable from Adugodi police station, after receiving the award, said, “This award shows that not all our work goes unnoticed. The fact that people actually remember our faces and names gives me a lot of satisfaction,” he said.
G M Nagaraj, head constable from KS Layout, said, “It’s a recognition for me for managing the traffic in rain, sunshine and even when I was unwell. In fact, this recognition inspires me to do more.”
It was a second moment of joy for Bhaskar, a traffic police constable from Indiranagar division, who is popularly known as Singham for his resemblance to the film character of the same name, as he was earlier awarded by former governor H R Bharadwaj for his meritorious service.
These 25 cops were selected on the basis of public opinion through emails, Facebook likes and comments and SMSes.
BPAC president and chairperson of Biocon Kiran Mazumdar Shaw said, “These unsung heroes make so much difference in our lives every day. If there is one aspect in which the City can improve, then that is traffic.”
She said next time, BPAC will also recognise the civil police and not just traffic cops for doing their duty sensitively.
Former top cop, Kiran Bedi, who was also present on the occasion, said: “Indian police force comprises 90 per cent constabulary staff and with this effort to recognise their services, you have reached the 90 per cent of the police.” She also suggested that there should be “name the good and shame the bad” initiative.
