Lucknow: Yogi Adityanath issued firm directives to ensure strict law and order across Uttar Pradesh during the upcoming festive season, warning that anyone attempting to disrupt peace during Holi, Maha Shivratri, Ramzan or other major events “will not be spared.”
Chairing a high-level review meeting with senior administrative and police officials, the Chief Minister emphasized that festivals must be celebrated in a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere. Officials from all divisions, police zones, ranges and districts joined the meeting via video conferencing.
Reviewing preparations for Holi celebrations scheduled from March 2 to 4, especially in the Braj region, the Chief Minister instructed authorities to ensure that traditional Holika Dahan ceremonies take place only at designated sites and not in the middle of roads. He directed strict vigilance to prevent miscreants from infiltrating religious processions and warned of strong action against those spreading unrest, rumours or provocative content, particularly on social media platforms.
Special focus was laid on security arrangements for devotees during Maha Shivratri. District Magistrates of Varanasi, Meerut, Lakhimpur Kheri and Barabanki briefed the Chief Minister on preparations at major Shiva temples. With heavy footfall expected on February 14 and 15, he directed that arrangements for smooth darshan, traffic management, parking, women’s safety and emergency response be ensured. Teams of NDRF and SDRF have been asked to remain on 24×7 alert. Police personnel deployed at temples were instructed to maintain courteous conduct and ensure adequate deployment of women officers.
The Chief Minister also called for identifying permanent solutions to recurring traffic congestion rather than relying solely on temporary measures.
On the issue of loudspeakers at religious places, he reiterated that sound levels must remain within premises and any violation should be dealt with immediately. A complete ban on DJs and high-volume sound systems after 10 pm at weddings and social functions was reaffirmed, with strict penalties for violations. Authorities were also asked to curb rising instances of begging near religious places and prepare rehabilitation plans for those involved.
Improvement in response time and efficiency of 108 and 102 ambulance services was stressed, with zero tolerance for negligence in emergency services. Strict monitoring was also ordered against illegal, spurious and toxic liquor manufacturing and sale. Action has been directed against reckless stunts on public roads.
With Uttar Pradesh Board examinations for Classes 10 and 12 beginning February 18, the Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure completely cheat-free exams and take the toughest action against offenders. As Ramzan approaches and Eid is expected around March 21, he urged continuous dialogue with religious leaders to maintain communal harmony and ensure no new traditions are introduced without approval.
Preparations for Vasantik Navratri starting March 19, followed by Ram Navami, and the upcoming Census phase must also be completed in time, he added, stressing that every department must discharge its responsibilities with accountability and utmost vigilance.
