Lucknow: Security has been significantly heightened outside the Jayaprakash Narayan International Centre (JPNIC) in Gomti Nagar ahead of the birth anniversary of socialist icon Jayaprakash Narayan. The move comes amid the possibility of Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav arriving at the venue, prompting police to go on high alert.
Late Friday night, heavy police force was deployed at the main gate, with iron barricades and tin sheets installed to block access. The road leading to the centre has also been closed. Officials said the measures were taken to “maintain law and order” and “ensure security.”
This heightened alert follows previous years of high drama at the location.
Last year, Akhilesh Yadav arrived a night before the event and was stopped at the gate, leading to a confrontation with police. Two years ago, when entry was denied, he scaled an eight-foot wall to go inside and pay tribute.
Since then, authorities have adopted stricter security protocols at the JPNIC every year.
Akhilesh has often accused the government of restricting access to the centre, which was initiated under the SP government. He has publicly questioned whether the state plans to sell or hand over the complex and accused the administration of “hiding the truth” by covering the gate with tin sheets.
With memories of past confrontations fresh, police are leaving nothing to chance this year.
