The Kolkata Armed Police (KAP) consists of eight battalions, each under a Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Police. Its main functions are to quell any widespread trouble or disorder in the city which the unarmed branch by itself may not be in a position to cope with. Other functions of this unit are to:

• Provide guards for important Government offices, treasuries and protected places
• Provide escorts for carrying arms and ammunition and Government treasuries
• Supply a striking force at Lalbazar Headquarters with a view to assisting to the unarmed branches

All battalions are under the overall supervision of the Jt. Commissioner, Armed Police