Bhubaneswar: As Odisha prepares to celebrate multiple major festivals, including Eid-ul-Fitr (March 31), Sri Ram Navami (April 6), Hanuman Jayanti (April 14), and Maha Vishuba Sankranti, the state police have intensified security arrangements to ensure public safety. A high-level review meeting was held at the State Police Headquarters under the chairmanship of Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania to finalize the comprehensive security strategy.
During the virtual meeting, DGP Khurania directed senior officials to ensure the smooth and peaceful observance of the upcoming festivals. He emphasized the importance of extensive security measures, continuous surveillance, and proactive steps to prevent any untoward incidents. Special focus was placed on monitoring social media for rumors and misinformation, with 24/7 cyber cell patrolling mandated across all districts to counter any potential threats.
To strengthen security, the police will install CCTV cameras, including AI-enabled systems, in sensitive areas. Community engagement will also be prioritized through the formation of peace committees and coordination meetings with local representatives and community groups to foster harmony. Additionally, intensified police patrolling, strict checking at sensitive locations, and close monitoring of processions will be implemented to prevent disturbances.
The State Crime Branch will conduct special workshops to train police personnel for effective deployment during the festive period. Special security provisions will be made for foot processions and bike rallies, with a targeted approach to identifying and taking action against habitual offenders and rumor-mongers. DGP Khurania underscored the necessity of maintaining high preparedness levels to handle any unforeseen situations effectively.
With the likelihood of rising temperatures during the festivals, DGP Khurania also instructed officials to prioritize the well-being of both the public and police personnel on duty, ensuring adequate hydration and medical support facilities.
The meeting was attended by senior police officials, including Director General of Police (Crime Branch) Vinaytosh Mishra, Additional Director General of Police (Modernization) Saumendra Priyadarshi, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Sanjay Kumar, Additional Director General of Police (HRPC) Yatindra Koyal, DIGP (Provisioning) Charan Singh Meena, DIGP (Personnel) Jugal Kishore Kumar Banoth, DCP (Cuttack) Khilari Rishikesh Dyandeo, along with many other senior officers who joined the meeting through virtual mode.
