DGP Reviews Law and Order Arrangements for Muharram, Issues Strict Guidelines

Ranchi: Ahead of Muharram, Jharkhand Police Headquarters held a high-level review meeting led by Director General of Police (DGP) Anurag Gupta to assess law and order preparedness across the state. The meeting, conducted via video conferencing, included participation from all Inspector Generals (IGs), Deputy Inspector Generals (DIGs), Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs), and Superintendents of Police (SPs) from all districts.

DGP Gupta instructed all district police officials to ensure robust security arrangements, particularly in sensitive areas prone to disturbances. He emphasized preventive measures and directed that police forces be deployed strategically, with immediate response mechanisms in place for any untoward incidents. Necessary arrangements for the well-being of deployed personnel, including food, water, and accommodation, were also stressed. He instructed all districts to check the availability of anti-riot gear and conduct riot control drills.

DGP Gupta also ordered that peace committee meetings be convened at both district and police station levels to promote communal harmony. Continuous monitoring through district and state-level control rooms will be maintained.

Special security measures are to be implemented along Muharram procession routes. The DGP directed installation of CCTV cameras, enhanced surveillance using photography, videography, and drone monitoring at religious places and sensitive points. Physical inspection of all routes and deployment of adequately equipped police personnel with body protectors and riot control gear were mandated. Arrangements for sufficient lighting and public address systems must be ensured. Medical emergency teams should be stationed along the routes, and district control rooms must operate round-the-clock during the events. Playing provocative songs through DJs or loudspeakers during processions has been strictly prohibited.

The DGP also stressed stringent monitoring of social media platforms to prevent the spread of rumours or misinformation, with instructions to take immediate action against those spreading fake news or inciting unrest.

The meeting was attended in person by ADGP Priya Dubey, IG Ranchi Manoj Kaushik, IG Special Branch Prabhat Kumar, IG Operations Dr. Michaelraj S, DIG Special Branch Shailendra Varnwal, SP Special Branch Mumal Rajpurohit, while other senior officers joined virtually.