Bhubaneswar: Ahead of Holi, DGP Y B Khurania on Friday instructed DCPs and SPs to intensify vigilance in sensitive areas and take strict action against anyone inciting violence.During a virtual meeting, Khurania emphasised the need for heightened alertness during Wednesday’s Holi festivities and police stations have been instructed to exercise extra caution in areas prone to communal tensions.
He said, “We have issued advisory to police in all districts and commissionerate police. Police stations across the state have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance during the festive period. Officers will conduct regular patrols in their respective jurisdictions to prevent any untoward incidents. Special attention will be given to crowded areas, marketplaces, and religious sites.”Khurania said that quick response teams must be prepared to handle emergencies. Additional police forces will be deployed in areas identified as sensitive or vulnerable to disturbances. Officers were directed to closely monitor social media platforms to prevent the spread of rumours or inflammatory content.“Senior officers will personally monitor the situation in their areas and coordinate with local community leaders to maintain peace and harmony. Rapid response teams will be stationed at strategic locations throughout the celebration period,” he added.The DGP further instructed strict action against miscreants involved in harassment, particularly women and elderly citizens. Special drives will be conducted to check drunk-driving and reckless behaviour on roads. He urged citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and celebrate the festival of colours responsibly.In Puri, police have organised special security arrangements for foreign tourists participating in Holi festivities. “Though there has been no instance of any misconduct towards any foreigner in living memory, we do not want to leave anything to chance. To prevent drowning incidents, we have asked hoteliers and lifeguards on the beach to keep a watch on swimmers. Tourists should take the assistance of lifeguards while bathing in the sea,” Puri SP Prateek Singh said.
