CHANDRAPUR

The Chandrapur District Police maintains a well-structured and strategically placed network of police stations, ensuring effective law enforcement across both urban and rural areas. The district police headquarters oversee key stations in Ramnagar, Babupeth, Chandrapur City, Durgapur, and Ballarpur, along with major locations such as Warora, Majari, Bhadrawati, Shegaon, and Rajura. Rural and remote regions are served by stations in Gondpipri, Kothari, Virur, Pombhurna, Dhaba, Gadchandur, Awalpur, Bramhapuri, Chimur, Mul, Jiviti, and other areas, ensuring a widespread police presence.

In Chandrapur, officers are affectionately referred to as ‘Kaka’ (uncle) and ‘Kaku’ (aunt), while some also use ‘Dada’ (elder brother) and ‘Tai’ (elder sister).

Chandrapur District Central Jail holds both historical and spiritual significance. The prison, known for housing several freedom fighters, remains an important landmark in the region. Among the notable figures imprisoned here was Jagannath Shankhadarwar, a dedicated freedom fighter from Gadchiroli, who endured six years of incarceration for his role in the Indian independence movement. Despite harsh conditions, he remained committed to the cause and resumed his activism after his release.

Beyond its historical importance, Chandrapur Jail is also home to the dargah of Shabuddin Shah, also known as Gaibi Shah Wali Baba. Locals say that he was arrested during British rule for his opposition to colonial policies and was imprisoned in the jail. It is also said that on the ninth day of Muharram, the prison gates mysteriously opened on their own, despite attempts by British authorities to keep them shut. He was later buried within the jail premises, and his tomb became a significant pilgrimage site.

Every year, on the ninth and tenth days of Muharram, the jail gates are opened to thousands of people who come to offer prayers at the dargah. The annual Urs begins in the morning and concludes at sunset the next day. People from all religions visit the tomb. Many feel the holy water from a well near the dargah possesses mystical healing properties.

Chandrapur district is generally considered a safe region, with residents feeling more secure compared to larger metropolitan areas. Children are commonly seen playing outside during the day, and most people go about their daily routines without major concerns. However, occasional incidents, such as kidnappings and harassment, have raised safety concerns, particularly for women. A notable case occurred nearly a decade ago when a young schoolgirl from Christianand School was kidnapped in Bramhapuri taluka, heightening fears about the safety of girls in the district.

A unique challenge to public safety in the district is the threat posed by wildlife, particularly tigers from the nearby forests. Villagers living near the ‘Ekara Bhuj’ jungle area frequently face human-wildlife conflicts, with instances of tiger attacks reported occasionally. In response, both the police and forest departments actively work to manage these risks and ensure the safety of residents.

Despite these concerns, law enforcement remains approachable, and the accessibility of police stations has made it easier for citizens—especially women from remote areas—to report grievances and seek assistance.