Gandhinagar, June 23: In preparation for the Muharram festival, Gujarat has implemented stringent security measures across 919 identified sensitive locations. Authorities have directed enhanced monitoring, risk assessments, and coordinated deployment of security forces to maintain peace during the celebrations.
On Tuesday, a video conference was held at the police headquarters, chaired by DGP G.S. Malik. The meeting reviewed law and order arrangements ahead of the Muharram processions and Tazia routes.
All police commissioners, range heads, and district superintendents participated virtually in the meeting. Officials were instructed to exercise heightened vigilance in sensitive areas, particularly those identified for special monitoring during the Tazia procession.
Police units have been tasked with conducting risk assessments in areas where incidents occurred during Muharram over the past five years. This aims to strengthen preventive policing measures.
The police chief has urged all city, district, range, and unit heads to develop comprehensive security deployment plans utilizing advanced technology. These plans include coordinated security arrangements along procession routes and gathering points to ensure real-time monitoring and rapid response capabilities.
As part of the security measures, additional SRPF companies and platoons have been deployed throughout the state. Field personnel are being briefed on operational responsibilities, the specific sensitivities of their areas, and emergency response protocols before deployment.
To enhance ground presence, teams of 8 to 10 police personnel have been assigned for intensive foot patrols in sensitive areas. Officials emphasized that the goal of visible police presence is to build public trust and prevent any potential disturbances.
Technical surveillance has been significantly increased, employing drones, CCTV systems, and body-worn cameras to monitor large crowds and procession routes. Officers on duty have also been instructed to wear body-worn cameras to ensure accountability and real-time recording of events.
In addition to physical security measures, continuous monitoring of social media platforms has been ordered. This aims to identify individuals or groups attempting to spread rumors, misinformation, or communal disharmony, enabling legal action against them.
Traffic regulation and crowd management plans have been developed to minimize disruptions to public movement during the processions.
Officials stated that these arrangements aim to maintain law and order in sensitive and crowded areas during Muharram, ensuring coordination between field units and the central control system.
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