Kolkata: The Special Protection Group (SPG), which provides protection to the Prime Minister, has disapproved of the design of the main dais on Red Road that was being constructed for the International Day of Yoga programme that will be led by PM Narendra Modi on Sunday. Following instructions from the security force, the dimensions of the dais are being changed. While its height is being lowered, a canopy is being installed to provide cover overhead.“The SPG team didn’t approve of the stage when they saw the old structure which they maintained violated the SOP. They wanted to contact the decorators. Not only was the old plan a security challenge, it also invited the possible elements of weather to come into play, the exact reason why Brigade was cancelled as the alternative venue. The structure looked weak too and the SPG feared that it could lead to a possible stage crash,” said another source.“Decorators are working on the revised stage design on a war-footing. There were multiple meetings and inspections involving senior officers from the SPG, Kolkata Police, IB and the central Ayush department. A new design was proposed and approved by the SPG team,” said a source aware of the developments.The SPG team cited security concerns over the stage height and safety concerns over the lack of cover from natural elements that violated its SOP. The meteorological department has forecast rain over the weekend. Sources said the SPG also expressed concern over the stability of the tall backdrop as it could crash.On Thursday, while arguing about the road block on Red Road at the Calcutta High Court, even the AG mentioned the SPG order. “India will be basically leading the world from Kolkata. The PM will be gracing the occasion, the governor will be there. The stage had to be pulled down because of SPG protocol. There are security threats,” additional advocate general Billwadal Bhattacharya submitted.On Thursday, while arguing about the road block on Red Road at the Calcutta High Court, even the AG mentioned the SPG order. “India will be basically leading the world from Kolkata. The PM will be gracing the occasion, the governor will be there. The stage had to be pulled down because of SPG protocol. There are security threats,” additional advocate general Billwadal Bhattacharya submitted.
