The Kolkata Police successfully organised the 26th edition of the Friendship Cup, held every year to spread awareness against crime and promote peace and harmony. The final match of the tournament was played on Friday with former England international Sol Campbell attending as the chief guest.
Launched in 1997, the Kolkata Police Friendship Cup has been held every year except during the Covid-19 pandemic years. This year’s tournament, which began on November 10, saw participation from 600 clubs within the Kolkata Police’s jurisdiction.
The final was played between Phoolbagan Welfare Association under Jorasanko police station and Taltala Boys Camp under Taltala police station with the former winning the trophy.
“In Kolkata, football is in the air. People here love to eat, drink and sleep football,” said Kolkata Police Commissioner Manoj Kumar Verma. “This the primary reason why Kolkata Police chose football to establish a strong police-public connect.”
He further mentioned that by having 600 teams playing across the city, the police encouraged camaraderie among the city’s neighbourhoods.
The commissioner of Kolkata Police added, “It is through this kind of tournament that we keep a watch on the area as well. The common public acts as our eyes and ears. Thus, through this tournament, we ensure policing is spread all over the city.”
The Friendship Cup participants contribute to supporting the police by sharing information about local anti-social elements, suspicious individuals, and related activities. Their insights assist in shaping more community-friendly policies and serve as a valuable feedback mechanism.
Campbell, heaping praise on Kolkata Police for making the city one of the safest places in the country, also acknowledged the police’s efforts in organising a competition involving 600 teams.
“I know Kolkata loves football. Football is in the heart and soul,” the former Arsenal star said. “This is my second time in Kolkata. I came in 2017 when England won the FIFA Under-17 World Cup here. I would love to be back and work in India when it comes to football.”