Kolkata, India: In a move reflecting heightened security concerns, the West Bengal State Police has enforced a comprehensive leave ban for all personnel, effective from April 2 to April 9. This directive, issued Tuesday, aims to ensure maximum police presence during the Ram Navami festival, scheduled for April 6, a period anticipated to see widespread processions and gatherings.
The order, transmitted to all officers across the state’s police commissionerates and district police jurisdictions, stipulates that leave will only be granted in cases of absolute emergency. This decision underscores the authorities’ commitment to preempting any potential disruptions to law and order during the festive period.
The heightened security posture follows explicit warnings from senior police officials, including Additional Director General (Law and Order) Javed Shamim and Additional Director General (South Bengal) Supratim Sarkar. Their recent public statements highlighted intelligence suggesting possible attempts to instigate unrest in the lead-up to both Ram Navami and the subsequent Eid celebrations.
Key security measures include:
Enhanced Deployment:
Police stations are on heightened alert, with all personnel prepared for immediate deployment.
Strategic deployment of security personnel in identified sensitive areas.
An increased police presence of roughly 5,000 officers will be placed through out the city of Kolkata.
Surveillance and Monitoring:
Comprehensive CCTV coverage of procession routes, with the installation of temporary cameras in uncovered areas.
Mandatory videography and photography of all processions, potentially involving professional videographers.
Drones will be used in sensitive locations for aerial surveillance.
Police officers will be wearing body cameras for real time monitoring.
Preventative Actions:
Identification and securing of religious and sensitive sites along procession routes.
Meetings with religious leaders to coordinate security arrangements.
Strict enforcement against illegal activities, including the carrying of weapons.
Vigilant monitoring of social media and immediate action against provocative content.
Police are holding community level meetings to help keep peace.
Rapid Response:
Instructions for immediate police response to any signs of unrest.
Establishment of rapid response teams on standby.
Authorities have emphasized that these measures are designed to ensure a peaceful and secure Ram Navami celebration. They have also made it clear that any attempts to disrupt public order will be dealt with swiftly and decisively.
