Arup Mukherjee, a responsible Constable of Kolkata Police has created waves in his arena for conducting the most challenging assignments. Be it the scorching summers or torrential rains during Monsoon or the biting cold in the winters – you will see him managing traffic at one of the busiest locations of Kolkata. During the weekend, this same person goes back to his roots to cater to the socially-deprived Sabar kids of Purulia. In spite of his meagre salary, he has opened a school in his hometown. To his credit may be attributed the uplift of the Sabar tribe. Way back in 2010, Mukherjee used his savings of Rs 4 lakh to build a school, especially for Sabar kids. When the news became public, many people from Kolkata and the suburbs were surprised to find him devote all his savings to a school for those kids. The Purba Nabadisha Model School which started with nine classrooms and just 20 children now has 112 children. Mukherjee is not just a name but an inspiration and a great motivator for the common people who dream of changing the lives of the poorest of the poor.
“When I was a kid, I used to see local boys from the Sabar tribe vindicated and harassed very often. Even the locals used to call them the criminal tribe. Whenever there was any crime in the locality, they were the ones who were held responsible. This sort of social discrimination didn’t at all help the situation of the marginalised tribe. Chiefly due to illiteracy, they didn’t have any social voice either. From my childhood days, I made it a point that I would do something special for them. When I joined the Kolkata Police in the late 90s, my primary target was to save money to set up a school exclusively for them. I also took a loan citing my mother’s poor health. It has been a long eventful journey since then and I am proud of the Sabar children who are changing the stereotypes here,” says Constable Arup Mukherjee.
Mukherjee, who is lovingly called ‘Sabar Baba’ or ‘Police Dada’, has truly become a social icon. There is no denying the fact that the Sabar tribe is one of the most backward tribes of our state living in central Bengal’s forest-covered Jangalmahal area of Purulia, Bankura and West Midnapore districts. In fact, the Sabar tribe was classified as a ‘Criminal Tribe’ during the British Raj under the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871. Poverty, illiteracy and starvation had driven the Sabarsto criminal activities like theft and dacoity. The scenario is definitely changing and independent voices like Arup Mukherjee are instrumental in creating awareness against all sorts of social discrimination against them. At present, many Sabar boys and girls owe their education and employment to this great man. The good thing is, many parents with criminal backgrounds have now reformed themselves. The wane in criminal records also reflects much development in the area.
“Frankly speaking, I admit that in spite of all education, earning a livelihood is indeed the biggest problem for the Sabar tribe. This is why it is my request to the government authorities to consider giving them jobs as that of Home Guards and the like. I am indebted to my job and my team in Kolkata Police. If these youngsters can shape up their careers with such institutions, many success stories will become a regular affair from the remote districts of Purulia, ushering a new era of hope and fulfilment,” signed off Arup Mukherjee, in his usual tone.
As of now, many US-based NGO assistance and generous donations from ordinary people have boosted the whole journey. Many people from the mainstream society have also come forward with their contributions. Arup Mukherjee is also immensely grateful to his family members who never fail to stand by him in the hours of need.
In 2016, Mukherjee was accorded with ‘24 Ghanta Ananya Samman’ and was also invited to Saurav Ganguly’s show ‘Dadagiri’.
He was also highlighted in the popular reality show DidiNo.1. In 2017, two organisations ushered upon him the Best Social Worker Award.
In May this year, Mukherjee was invited from Udaipur in Rajasthan to receive the very special ‘Teacher Warrior Award 2018’.
By our Correspondent
