A major security breach was swiftly neutralized in Varanasi on Tuesday, as personnel protecting Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath apprehended a youth who managed to cross the security perimeter. The incident occurred at Namo Ghat during a public function, sending a wave of alertness through the security detail.
How the Security Breach Unfolded
The individual, identified as Jogindar Gupta, a local resident who sells drinking water at the City Station, stunned officials by breaching the multi-layered security cordon. The breach happened at the inaugural function for the Kashi Tamil Sangamam (KTS). Gupta, who was in a heavily intoxicated state, managed to reach alarmingly close to the dais where the Chief Minister was seated.
Eyewitnesses described a tense moment as the man moved towards the stage. However, the timely action of CM Yogi Adityanath's security personnel proved crucial. They intercepted Gupta before he could get any closer, physically removing him from the vicinity of the stage to ensure the Chief Minister's safety. He was immediately handed over to the waiting police force.
Background of the Accused and Police Action
Following the arrest, ACP (Sarnath) Vidush Saxena provided details about the accused. Police investigations and contact with his family revealed that Jogindar Gupta was mentally disturbed, a condition exacerbated by excessive consumption of drugs and alcohol. It was also disclosed that he had a history of such issues and had previously been admitted to a rehabilitation centre for treatment.
Given his evident state of intoxication and disturbed mental condition, the police did not merely detain him in a regular cell. Instead, Gupta was sent to the Government Mental Hospital for a thorough medical examination. This step underscores the procedural protocol followed when dealing with individuals not in full control of their faculties.
Aftermath and Security Implications
The incident, though resolved without physical harm, has highlighted the constant vigilance required during high-profile visits. The seamless coordination between the CM's personal security team and the local Varanasi police ensured a rapid response. Such breaches, even by non-threatening but unstable individuals, are taken with utmost seriousness to prevent any potential threat.
The event at Namo Ghat continued without further disruption after the suspect was taken into custody. This episode serves as a reminder of the challenges security teams face in managing large public gatherings, especially in densely populated and spiritually significant cities like Varanasi.
