LUCKNOW – With India’s 78th Independence Day on August 15 and Janmashtami on August 16, Uttar Pradesh is bracing for a unique convergence of celebrations. The back-to-back festivities, coupled with the Chehlum procession on August 14, pose a significant security challenge for the state. In response, Uttar Pradesh’s Director General of Police (DGP) Rajiv Krishna has issued comprehensive directives to ensure a peaceful and safe environment for all.
Key Highlights of the Security Plan
DGP Krishna’s security plan focuses on a multi-pronged approach, emphasizing heightened vigilance, intelligence gathering, and public coordination. The core directives address both major events, with specific measures tailored to each.
Securing Independence Day
The security arrangements for Independence Day are designed to protect national pride and prevent any disruption to the day’s events.
- Venue Security: All event locations, including flag hoisting ceremonies and parades, will undergo mandatory anti-sabotage checks before the events begin. Special security personnel will be deployed at entry and exit points, and rooftop surveillance will be maintained to monitor crowds.
- Vigilance at Key Locations: Security has been increased at high-footfall areas such as railway stations, bus terminals, airports, and religious sites. Security personnel at these locations have been thoroughly briefed on their duties.
- Border Patrol: State and district borders will see continuous and effective checking. Checkpoints and barriers will be staffed by alert personnel, and CCTV cameras will be fully operational to monitor for suspicious activities.
- Airspace Restrictions: A strict watch will be kept on microlight aircraft, paragliders, and drones. Unauthorized flights will be immediately grounded.
- Intelligence & Social Media Monitoring: District intelligence units and social media cells have been activated to track any activity related to extremist or banned organizations. Social media will be monitored 24/7 for any inflammatory or misleading content, which will be promptly taken down.
- Crackdown on Illegal Activities: Authorities will conduct surprise checks at both permanent and temporary checkpoints to curb the trafficking of illegal weapons, alcohol, and explosives. A tenant verification drive will also be launched in residential areas.
Safeguarding Janmashtami
Given the religious significance of Janmashtami, the police’s focus is on maintaining peace and communal harmony during processions and temple gatherings.
- Event and Venue Registration: Authorities are compiling a list of all Janmashtami celebrations, processions, and temples. Security and traffic plans will be devised based on the estimated number of attendees.
- Respecting Tradition: Police will review local festival registers to prevent the introduction of any new traditions that could spark conflict. Lists of anti-social elements will be updated, and preventative measures will be taken where necessary.
- Community Coordination: Police, local magistrates, and other officials will hold meetings with event organizers, religious leaders, and peace committees to address any potential issues and ensure smooth coordination.
- Resolving Disputes: Special attention will be given to areas that have previously experienced Janmashtami-related disputes. Police and revenue officials will work together to resolve any issues.
- Surveillance: Shobha yatras (religious processions) and other key events will be monitored using both videography and drone cameras.
- Safety for Women and Children: To ensure the safety of women and girls, a sufficient number of male and female police officers in plainclothes will be deployed.
With two major celebrations happening back-to-back, what steps do you think are most crucial for ensuring a peaceful and safe environment for all?
