Alarmed over a general trend of festivals being hijacked by anti-social elements to indulge in hooliganism, Mumbai Police decided to step in to make the popular Holi celebrations safe.
Much before the festival of colours Holi the city cops swung into action in cyber space with their witty tweets using the hashtag #PaintTheTownSafe#. Mumbai police came up with a short and entertaining campaign which included witty tweets of Holi messages as well as tweets to enhance awareness of the responsibility that is tagged with the right to celebrate. The internet often gives Mumbai police’s social media team a big thumbs up, whether it is for their witty tweets on Baahubali, reel-life villains. The Holi social media campaign too impressed the Twitterati.
After the launch of the Twitter account, Mumbai police have shown that they are ready to walk in tandem with the new generation addicted to social media. From the day of its launch, the city cops have been improving their tweets and have also attracted the youth with their one line punches and Bollywood style dialogue delivery.
“Burra Na Mano Holi Hai (Don’t mind, it’s Holi)” – that’s an excuse used far too frequently to pass off hooliganism for Holi celebrations. This time we decided to be active in all the social media platforms to get connected to as many people as possible. It also feels good that people are equally appreciating our efforts,” said an officer attached to the police commissionerate.
“We are always trying our best to help the local citizens in all possible manners.
Social media has been one such platform wherein we can target or communicate with people of different age group and sectors. Citizens responding to our tweets make us feel happy as it is a success of our team effort,” said another police officer.
With over 1,588 tweets and 4.55 million followers within a year one can understand the involvement of people with the city police. “We also get cases registered over the tweets. Many of them prefer to tweet us if they go through some difficulties or witness some illicit activities. Once we get any such tweet the local police station is informed immediately and effective action is taken,” he added.
People Talk
“I have been a follower of Mumbai police Twitter account since its launch. The team behind the tweets are too good. I have seen many people tweeting about the problem they are facing and I was pleasantly surprised to see the quick response of the team. The city cops have already garnered 4.55 million followers through their tweets and I congratulate them and appreciate all the efforts,” said Sushant Patil, resident of Mumbai.
‘Mumbai police have always been helpful in my view. I have come across many such incidents when the cops have responded quickly and effective action has been taken by them. Speaking about their tweets #VoiceOfMumbai# and #Don’tDrinkAndDrive# etc are some of their initiatives which have received a huge response from the local people. #PaintTheTownSafe# is also one of the best campaigns undertaken by the city cops. There are many people who misuse this freedom of festivals, watch out..!!! Mumbai police is looking for you,” remarked Santosh Gangurde, resident of Kurla.
“Happy Holi Mumbai Police… because of you, we are feeling safe… love you Mumbai police,” tweets another Mumbaikar.
“I wish Mumbai police and their family members happy Holi. Most of the cops were on duty and couldn’t celebrate Holi with their families. Thank you for your dedication to keep us and city safe,” said a Mumbai police well-wisher.
“Happy Holi to all the Men in Khaki! Though I am not a Mumbaikar still am a big time fan of your work. Especially the way you people communicate, the creative messages, they are brilliant. I mean above (the standards of) this world. Hats off to each one of you #MenInKhaki,” tweeted Prakash Sharma, resident of Bandra.
