UP High Alert: DGP Prashant Kumar Orders Security Crackdown Across State
Lucknow, April 23, 2025 – In a robust response to intelligence inputs and heightened national security concerns, Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Prashant Kumar has declared a statewide high alert, launching a comprehensive, multi-tiered security crackdown across the state. The directive, issued to all district and commissionerate police units, is aimed at preventing any potential terror or criminal activities.
With UP’s strategic and cultural importance—home to cities like Ayodhya, Varanasi, Mathura, and Agra (Taj Mahal)—the DGP’s orders are being treated with utmost urgency by the state machinery.
Border Security Intensified Amid Inter-State Threats
As per the directive, police chiefs in all districts—especially those bordering neighboring states—have been told to immediately set up permanent barricades and checkpoints. Surveillance along highways and internal roads has been intensified.
- Round-the-clock screening of vehicles and individuals has been mandated.
- Police are under strict instructions to monitor for suspicious activity.
- Inter-state coordination with bordering state forces is being maintained to share real-time intelligence.
“These measures are preventive in nature but critical given the intelligence landscape. Every checkpoint and patrol is a line of defense,” said a senior official from the UP Home Department.
Heightened Vigil at Key Infrastructure and Tourist Hotspots
High footfall public places and strategic infrastructure are receiving special focus. Police presence has been increased at:
- Airports and metro stations
- Railway stations and bus terminals
- Malls, religious places, markets, and public squares
- Hotels, dharamshalas, roadside eateries, and inns
Tourist hubs, especially sites of religious and historical importance, have received heightened protection protocols. Ayodhya, Varanasi, and the Taj Mahal in Agra, which attract millions of domestic and international visitors annually, are now under enhanced security watch.
A special directive has also been issued to protect foreign tourists, with dedicated patrols and multilingual help desks being deployed in major cities.
Police Preparedness Strengthened at All Levels
DGP Kumar’s directive includes a statewide manpower audit to assess and optimize the deployment of security forces across districts. Each police station has been ordered to:
- Maintain Quick Response Teams (QRTs) equipped with bulletproof vests and live ammunition.
- Keep riot control and counterterror gear ready for immediate deployment.
- Ensure all patrol units are briefed on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for high-risk scenarios.
The special focus is on maintaining readiness for emergencies such as terror attacks, civil unrest, or sudden law-and-order breakdowns.
Tenant Verification and Urban Surveillance Intensified
Recognizing the risk posed by potential sleeper cells and unverified residents, police units have also been ordered to:
- Conduct intensive tenant verification in all residential and commercial areas, including newly developed colonies.
- Cross-check tenant identities with national and local databases.
- Monitor short-term accommodations through coordination with property owners and housing societies.
“Tenant verification should not be treated as a checkbox task. It is a critical tool to prevent urban infiltration by anti-national elements,” DGP Kumar emphasized in the internal circular.
Public Support and Vigilance Encouraged
Citizens are being urged to report any suspicious behavior, vehicles, or objects to their nearest police station or via emergency helplines. The police have also activated cyber monitoring teams to track online chatter related to potential threats.
Public messaging is being distributed through SMS alerts, social media, and FM radio stations to ensure community awareness.