Bihar Police Mobilize Extensive Security Apparatus for Holi Festivities
In a comprehensive move to ensure peaceful Holi celebrations across the state, Bihar Police have announced extensive security preparations. Additional Director General (ADG) Pankaj Kumar Darad detailed these measures on Monday, emphasizing the deployment of specialized forces and strict regulatory frameworks.
Strategic Deployment of Quick Response Teams and Personnel
Quick Response Teams (QRTs) will be strategically positioned at both district and sub-divisional levels to swiftly address any untoward incidents. This proactive approach aims to mitigate potential disturbances before they escalate.
The police force will be significantly bolstered with 12 companies of the Regional Reserve Force, 35 companies of BSAP, 18,822 newly appointed trainee constables, 1,600 PTC trainees from the Bihar Police Academy in Rajgir, 1,168 PTC trainees, 5,100 home guards, and three companies of CAPF. These units will be deployed across various districts as required, ensuring a robust presence in sensitive areas.
Focus on Sensitive Districts and Traditional Celebrations
Authorities have identified specific sensitive districts where traditional Holi celebrations, such as ‘Zhumta Jhulus’, are held. Arwal, Nawada, and Gaya are among the key areas receiving heightened attention. Extra police forces will be stationed in these regions to maintain law and order, with magistrates, police officers, and the Rapid Action Force on standby.
ADG Darad highlighted past incidents, noting, “During Holi last year, 50 crime incidents took place. The highest number was in Rohtas (12), followed by Nawada (7), Patna (6), and Munger and Sitamarhi (2 each). Special vigilance has been directed at these places this year.”
Strict Guidelines to Prevent Hooliganism and Ensure Public Safety
To curb disturbances, the police have issued stringent guidelines:
- No procession or public gathering will be permitted without a proper licence.
- Loud music, particularly obscene songs, will be strictly prohibited.
- Those found indulging in hooliganism or disturbing public peace will face strict legal action.
Additionally, hospitals have been advised to remain on high alert, and fire brigades will be stationed at key locations to handle emergencies. All district control rooms have been put on alert and linked directly to the police headquarters control room, enabling real-time monitoring of even minor incidents.
Preventive Actions and Recent Law Enforcement Achievements
In anticipation of Holi, preventive measures have been in place since February. Actions under Section 126 of the BNSS were taken against 1,32,824 people, and proposals were sent to the District Magistrate for action against 265 persons under Section 3 of the CCA.
ADG Darad shared recent enforcement statistics:
- In February, 5,459 accused were arrested in various cases, including murder (379), dacoity (63), robbery (146), SC/ST Act cases (309), kidnapping, and other offences.
- Raids resulted in the recovery of 373 weapons and 2,186 cartridges.
- During the ‘S-Drive’, 94,674 vehicles were inspected, with 10,593 vehicles issued summons and Rs 158.32 lakh collected in fines.
- 1,918 wanted accused were arrested, and over 53,000 litres of foreign liquor and 70,000 litres of country liquor were seized.
These efforts underscore Bihar Police’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment during the festive season, leveraging both preventive strategies and responsive deployments to safeguard public order.
