Punjab, January 24:
Amid warnings of a potential terrorist attack on Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, security around him has been significantly enhanced. Punjab Police and security agencies have been receiving consistent alerts in this regard. Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav confirmed these inputs and stated that special measures have been implemented to strengthen security. CM Mann’s Republic Day program has also been modified for safety reasons.
Initially, CM Mann was scheduled to hoist the national flag in Faridkot on January 26, but the event has now been shifted to Mohali due to security concerns.
Changes in Kejriwal’s Security
The security detail of former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has undergone changes, with 22 special commandos of Punjab Police being withdrawn. According to Delhi Police, Kejriwal has been provided Z+ security, which includes 63 personnel along with 15 armed personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). DGP Gaurav Yadav explained that both Kejriwal and Mann have been receiving consistent inputs about potential threats, necessitating adjustments in their security arrangements.
High Alert Ahead of Republic Day
A high alert has been issued across Punjab for Republic Day. DGP Gaurav Yadav has directed all police stations, checkpoints, and especially border areas and inter-state boundaries, to reinforce security measures. The recent grenade attacks on police stations and ongoing threats from terrorist organizations prompted these actions.
DGP Yadav has been personally reviewing security preparations by visiting key districts like Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Bathinda, and others. Administrative meetings are being held to ensure law and order is maintained.
Deployment of Special Security Forces
In response to the heightened alert, 5,000 personnel from the Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) have been deployed across the state. These personnel will monitor key locations, including border areas, railway stations, bus stands, multiplexes, religious sites, and other public places.
Additionally, other agencies such as the Anti-Narcotics Task Force, Vigilance Bureau, Internal Security, and the State Special Operations Cell have been tasked with maintaining security. Daily monitoring of police activities in every district has also been ordered by the DGP.
Punjab’s government and security agencies remain vigilant to ensure peace and safety across the state.