As Indore gears up to ring in the New Year, the city police have rolled out a comprehensive security blueprint focused on prevention and safety. The plan introduces several citizen-friendly measures, including the deployment of female bouncers at entertainment venues and mandatory drop facilities for inebriated patrons, aiming to ensure celebrations are memorable for the right reasons.
Focus on Prevention and Visible Security
Police officials state that the strategy hinges on three pillars: prevention, quick response, and visible security. The objective is to allow residents to enjoy the countdown with confidence while actively discouraging harassment, misbehaviour, and any attempts to disturb public peace. Police Commissioner Santosh Kumar Singh emphasized that pub and hotel owners have been given a clear set of instructions to follow, holding them responsible for the safe return of their guests.
"There are elaborate security arrangements in place for New Year celebrations. Pub owners have been asked to make sure that the people attending their parties reach home safely and are not caught driving under the influence of alcohol," Commissioner Singh said. The police have urged partygoers to leave their car keys at home if they plan to drink and instead use cab services, carpool, or take a lift.
Strict Guidelines for Event Organisers
Authorities have conducted detailed meetings with event organisers, outlining a strict list of dos and don'ts. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been shared, mandating that all necessary permissions, security arrangements, fire safety measures, and traffic plans be finalized in advance. Key instructions include:
- Prominent display of helpline numbers at all venues.
- Immediate addressing of complaints filed by women.
- Deployment of female security staff at busy locations.
- Keeping emergency exits unobstructed at all times.
- Preventing weapons or narcotics from entering the premises.
- Informing police immediately in case of any dispute.
Commissioner Singh instructed all police units to coordinate closely with organisers to ensure every event operates within legal limits. Any venue found serving liquor without permission, operating beyond permitted hours, or allowing minors inside will face strict action. Similarly, loud or obscene performances, nuisance behaviour, and stunt-driving will not be tolerated.
Traffic Police's Polite Yet Firm Warning
In a unique initiative, the city's traffic department released a poster with a clear message: "Please try not to become our guests." This polite request underscores a serious warning against drunk driving, which typically sees a spike during late-night celebrations. The poster reminds citizens that police teams will be vigilant at multiple checking points across the city throughout the night.
The appeal is for people to not drive under the influence, ensuring they do not risk their own lives or the lives of other road users. Over 500 police personnel will be deployed on December 31 to manage smooth traffic movement and overall public safety.
Patrolling teams will be active, and traffic advisories have been issued. "We appealed to citizens not to take liberty with their lives and not endanger lives of others while celebrating the New Year," Singh added. Violations could lead to fines, sealing of premises, licence cancellation, or even criminal cases, with organisers being held accountable for any negligence at their venue.
The overarching goal is clear: to ensure the evening ends with happy memories, not breathalyser tests and the flashing sirens of police vehicles.
