Ludhiana is gearing up for a heavily secured New Year's Eve celebration, with city authorities deploying a massive force of nearly 900 police personnel to maintain order. The extensive security operation, which will be activated from 6 pm on December 31, aims to prevent any disorder during the festivities.
Comprehensive Security Blueprint Unveiled
The Ludhiana police have formulated a detailed security plan to cover the entire city. Deputy Commissioner of Police (City) Rupinder Singh confirmed that the force will consist of 750 general duty officers and 150 traffic police personnel. A key feature of the strategy is the establishment of 50 static checkpoints at high-traffic areas, including major shopping malls and marketplaces.
In addition to these fixed points, multiple Police Control Room (PCR) patrolling teams will be on continuous movement throughout the night and into the early hours of New Year's Day. The police have adopted a "zero-tolerance" stance towards hooliganism, drink-driving, and particularly the harassment of women, often referred to as eve-teasing.
Strict Directives for Public and Venues
Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain has issued stringent orders, including a prohibition on serving alcohol to anyone under the age of 25. He has warned hotels, bars, and restaurants of severe penalties for non-compliance. The mandates for venues are clear and multi-faceted:
- Age Verification: Strict checks against fake IDs and no alcohol service to under-25s.
- Permit Compliance: Live shows or DJ parties cannot serve liquor without explicit prior permission.
- Noise and Time Control: All musical events must end within legal hours.
- Immediate Reporting: Venues must stop liquor service and inform the nearest police station at the first sign of disturbance.
Traffic police have been strategically placed at known congestion points to manage the influx of revellers. DCP Rupinder Singh emphasized that special drink-driving checks will be conducted, and offenders will be issued challans (fines). Those involved in eve-teasing or hooliganism will face immediate criminal charges, with First Information Reports (FIRs) being registered against them.
Enforcement Teams to Conduct Raids
To ensure strict adherence to these rules, special enforcement task forces have been constituted. These teams are led by Sub-Divisional Magistrates (SDMs) and include officials from the police, excise, and food safety departments. They have already begun conducting random, surprise raids on various venues across Ludhiana district.
Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain stated that the proactive approach of night patrolling and raids is intended to "prevent law and order disturbances before they begin." The heightened security vigil is expected to continue well after the official New Year celebrations have concluded, ensuring a safe transition into 2025 for all residents and visitors in Ludhiana.
