Assam Police Chief Conducts Detailed Security Review Ahead of Republic Day Celebrations in Dibrugarh
In a significant security preparedness exercise, Assam Director General of Police (DGP) Harmeet Singh conducted an extensive security review at the Khanikar Parade Ground in Dibrugarh on Saturday. This crucial inspection comes just days before the 77th Republic Day celebrations on January 26, where Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will unfurl the national flag and take the ceremonial salute.
Heightened Security Amid Militant Concerns
The DGP's visit assumes particular importance given heightened security concerns across Assam. The banned militant outfit Ulfa-Independent (Ulfa-I) has called for a boycott of Republic Day celebrations throughout the state, necessitating enhanced security protocols and vigilance measures. This marks the second consecutive year that Chief Minister Sarma will preside over Republic Day festivities in Dibrugarh, further solidifying the city's status as Assam's second capital.
During the thorough inspection, DGP Singh was accompanied by a high-level delegation including:
- Special DIG (Training) Retd Brigadier Charandeep Singh
- Dibrugarh District Commissioner Bikram Kairi
- Senior Superintendent of Police Abhijit Gurav
- Various other senior police and administrative officials
Confidence in Security Arrangements
Following the meticulous examination of security arrangements and infrastructure readiness at the venue, DGP Singh addressed reporters with an expression of confidence in the preparations. "All security arrangements have been put in place to ensure smooth and safe celebrations," stated the police chief.
He elaborated on Dibrugarh's special significance, noting: "As everyone is aware, Dibrugarh holds special significance as the second capital of Assam. Last year marked a historic occasion when the honourable chief minister unfurled the national tricolour here for the first time and took the salute at the Republic Day Parade. This year too, he will grace the occasion, unfurl the flag, and take the salute."
The DGP emphasized that every aspect of security preparations has been finalized and urged citizens to participate enthusiastically in the patriotic celebrations.
Grand Parade and Traffic Management
This year's Republic Day Parade in Dibrugarh will feature an impressive display with 31 contingents participating in the march past. Among these, 17 contingents will represent various police, paramilitary, and security forces, showcasing Assam's security apparatus and disciplined forces.
Anticipating a large gathering of citizens and schoolchildren at Khanikar Field, district authorities have implemented comprehensive measures to ensure public safety and maintain smooth traffic flow. The district administration has issued a prohibitory order under Section 163 of the Bhartiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, imposing specific restrictions on vehicle movement.
The traffic restrictions include:
- Complete ban on movement of dumpers and construction material-carrying vehicles
- Prohibition of all heavy vehicles within Dibrugarh Municipal Corporation area
- Restrictions extending up to Khanikar Chariali
These restrictions will remain effective from 8 AM on January 25 to 12 PM on January 27. Authorities have warned that any violation of this order will attract punishment under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
Strengthening Dibrugarh's Administrative Role
The continued selection of Dibrugarh for major state-level celebrations reinforces its growing importance in Assam's administrative landscape. The city's designation as the second capital gains further prominence through such high-profile events, bringing increased attention to its infrastructure development and security preparedness.
The comprehensive security review and traffic management measures demonstrate the administration's commitment to ensuring that Republic Day celebrations proceed smoothly while maintaining the highest standards of public safety. As Assam prepares to celebrate the 77th Republic Day, all eyes will be on Dibrugarh as it hosts the state's chief executive for this significant national occasion.
