Delhi Police Implements Stringent Security Measures Ahead of Republic Day
In preparation for the upcoming Republic Day celebrations, Delhi Police has been placed on high alert with specific directives to prevent graffiti incidents across the national capital. Police Commissioner Satish Golchha has instructed all units to intensify patrolling and maintain heightened vigilance around iconic buildings, public spaces, and government offices.
Enhanced Security in Key Districts
Security arrangements have been significantly strengthened in the New Delhi, Central, and North districts. These areas are home to critical locations such as Parliament, Red Fort, India Gate, and several other high-security and symbolic sites. The move follows previous instances where prominent walls in the city were defaced with motivated graffiti, prompting a zero-tolerance policy from security agencies.
All officers have been explicitly directed not to share copies of Republic Day arrangements or other sensitive details on WhatsApp or any social media platforms, a senior police officer emphasized. This directive is part of an extensive security plan leading up to the Republic Day parade on January 26, which attracts large public gatherings and the movement of dignitaries.
Comprehensive Security Review and Coordination
A detailed meeting was held earlier this month at Delhi Police headquarters to review the arrangements, attended by all senior officers. During the three-hour session, specific instructions were issued to local police and control room units to enhance patrolling in and around Metro stations, bus terminals, flyovers, and prominent government or heritage buildings, particularly in the New Delhi, North, and Central districts.
Surveillance and coordination with civic authorities have been stepped up to ensure no defacement of public property or suspicious activity goes unnoticed, the officer stated. Security personnel have also been briefed to monitor social media for posts that may encourage graffiti-related protests or acts of vandalism.
Targeted Measures Against Previous Incidents
In response to earlier years where followers of designated individual Gurpatwant Singh Pannu, founder of the banned outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), had created graffiti in key areas, police have directed increased presence and area domination in critical stretches. We have directed increased presence and area domination in key stretches to prevent any such incidents, another officer explained.
At the meeting, all zonal in-charges were instructed to prepare contingency plans for their respective zones and review them with senior officers. An ACP-rank officer should be nominated as contingency officer...The nominated officers must have sufficient personnel to handle any untoward situation independently, the officer added, ensuring readiness for any potential disruptions.
These proactive measures underscore Delhi Police's commitment to maintaining public order and safeguarding national symbols during the Republic Day festivities, with a focus on preventing any security breaches or acts of vandalism.
