A massive crowd, cutting across political lines, gathered in Akola on Wednesday to pay their final respects to senior Congress leader and party state vice-president Hidayat Patel. Patel succumbed to stab injuries sustained a day earlier in Akot taluka, casting a pall over the district just days before scheduled elections.
Heavy Police Deployment Ensures Peaceful Last Rites
With an estimated 7,500 people converging for the funeral procession and burial, the district police were on high alert. Senior officials, including Akola Superintendent of Police Archit Chandak, orchestrated extensive security arrangements to prevent any untoward incident.
In a statement to the press, SP Chandak detailed the security measures. An SP-rank officer, two deputy SPs, and around 10 other senior police officers were deployed on the ground. The force was bolstered by a large contingent of regular police personnel, three units of the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF), a Quick Response Team, and riot control police.
Strategic Crowd Management in Sensitive Environment
The police implemented several crowd-control strategies to manage the huge gathering. Traffic diversions were put in place, and dedicated crowd-management teams were positioned at key entry points around the burial ground. Additional personnel regulated the movement of groups as they arrived.
"The measures were aimed at preventing bottlenecks and keeping emergency access routes clear," officials stated. The sensitive timing, with elections scheduled for January 15 and the recent violent attack creating a tense environment, meant the district police brass was on its toes. Senior officials monitored the situation minute by minute.
A Final Farewell Reflecting Patel's Stature
The massive turnout was seen as a direct reflection of the influence and respect Hidayat Patel commanded in Akola district. Party workers, supporters, and local residents lined the streets to join the procession, showcasing a moment of unity beyond political affiliations.
Thanks to the stringent security plan, the situation remained entirely peaceful. The last rites were completed without any incident, allowing the community to mourn the loss of their leader in a solemn and orderly manner.
