Patna: The Bihar govt has ordered tight security across the state for Durga Puja and Dussehra, banning DJs, making licences mandatory for Puja pandals and immersion processions, and directing strict action against rumour-mongers and troublemakers. The directives were issued at a review meeting chaired by chief secretary (CS) Pratyaya Amrit and director general of police (DGP) Preeta Verma on Monday.Officials warned of strict and impartial action under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) against anyone spreading hate or rumours on social media or other platforms on the basis of religion, caste or language. Those damaging or vandalising religious places will also face stringent action.Principal secretary, home department, Pankaj Kumar, DG (operations and special branch) Kundan Krishnan and ADG (law and order) K Suhita Anupam were also present.Amrit asked officials to ensure peaceful and safe celebrations with women and child safety as the top priority. He ordered strict enforcement of the ban on DJs and close monitoring of sensitive locations.Verma asked SPs to increase police visibility and deploy personnel at strategic locations. She called for comprehensive briefings of police personnel, greater participation in peace committee meetings and mandatory fire audits of major puja pandals by district fire officers. She also ordered strict social media monitoring.Kundan directed special security arrangements for idol immersion and processions, along with regular interaction with peace committees and surprise inspections of district control rooms.Pankaj, in a presentation, issued guidelines for all 40 districts, including 38 administrative and two police districts.All Puja pandals, idols and immersion processions will require 100% licensing. Organisers will have to furnish undertakings from 10 to 25 responsible persons, while procession routes will be videographed and photographed.Provocative songs, objectionable slogans, prohibited weapons and displays hurting community sentiments will be prohibited. Loudspeakers will require permission and remain banned between 10pm and 6am.
