The Candidate: In the ever-evolving political landscape of India, the spotlight has turned to Arup Patnaik, a former IPS officer renowned for his impactful tenure as Mumbais Police Commissioner. Known for his decisive actions and bold reforms, Patnaik has once again captured public attention, this time as the BJDs candidate for the high-profile Puri constituency in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Arup Patnaik, a 1979 batch IPS officer from Odisha, left an indelible mark during his tenure as Mumbai Police Commissioner from February 2011 to August 2012. His period in office was anything but ordinary. Patnaik was known for his distinctive catchphrases like pehle action baadme section and pehle joota baadme Gita, emphasizing prompt action over procedural delays. His leadership style included surprise visits to police stations at night and strict checks on officer conduct, which led to bigger improvements in police discipline and canteen facilities.Patnaiks commitment to law enforcement was evident in his support of ACP Vasant Dhobles controversial bar raids, earning him the moniker of Mumbais bar-busting top cop. Despite criticism, Patnaik remained steadfast, showcasing his resolve to enforce law and order.From police reforms to political arenaAfter retiring in 2015, Patnaik transitioned into politics, joining the Naveen Patnaik-led BJD in April 2018. His political journey took a major shift when the BJD selected him to contest from Puri, replacing the four-time MP Pinaki Misra. This move positions Patnaik against BJPs Sambit Patra, setting the stage for a highly anticipated electoral battle.Patnaik also contested in the Lok Sabha elections 2024 from the Bhubaneswar seat, where he narrowly lost to BJPs Aparajita Sarangi. His candidature in Puri is seen as a strategic decision by the BJD, banking on his local roots and law enforcement legacy to secure a win.Controversies and challengesPatnaiks career, however, was not without controversies. His tenure as Mumbais top cop was marked by a major incident during the Azad Maidan riots, where his handling of the situation and subsequent comments led to his replacement. This event, coupled with his straightforward and often blunt demeanor, sometimes put him at odds with colleagues and the public alike.Despite these challenges, Patnaiks contributions to law enforcement, particularly in curbing the 1992-1993 communal riots and investigating the Harshad Mehta securities scam, earned him respect and recognition.A new chapter in PuriAs Patnaik steps into the political limelight in Puri, his focus extends beyond law enforcement. Leading the BJDs social welfare wing, Odisha-Mo Parivar, Patnaik has demonstrated his commitment to social causes, including founding the Konark Cancer Foundation to support cancer patients.His candidacy in Puri brings a blend of rigorous law enforcement experience and a passion for social welfare, promising a unique approach to governance. The electoral contest in Puri is set to be closely watched, with Patnaiks reputation as a tough taskmaster and his deep connections to Odisha playing pivotal roles.
