Punjab Police Issues Red Alert Ahead of Dussehra and Panchayat Elections
Jalandhar: As Punjab gears up for the upcoming Dussehra festivities and the Panchayat elections, the Punjab Police has declared a state-wide red alert to ensure the safety of citizens and prevent any untoward incidents. The red alert, issued under the direction of Punjab’s Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav, aims to ramp up security across the state during these crucial times, said Special Director General of Police (Spl DGP) Law and Order, Arpit Shukla, during a surprise visit to Jalandhar.
During his visit, Spl DGP Arpit Shukla reviewed the ongoing security arrangements and confirmed that extensive precautions are being implemented throughout Punjab. Over 600 high-tech checkpoints, or “nakas,” have been established across the state to monitor and prevent any potential threats from anti-social elements. These checkpoints are strategically positioned at critical locations, particularly along inter-state and inter-district borders, to keep a close watch on suspicious activities.
“Police personnel at these nakas have been instructed to thoroughly check two-wheelers and any suspicious vehicles,” Shukla stated. “They will take preventive action against individuals who seem suspicious or involved in illegal activities. We have sealed all the inter-state and inter-district borders to ensure that no unwanted elements can cause disruptions.”
The Spl DGP also visited crowded marketplaces in Jalandhar, interacting with police personnel stationed at the checkpoints to ensure they are prepared and vigilant. Following his inspection, he convened a meeting with senior officers of the Jalandhar Commissionerate Police in the presence of Commissioner of Police (CP) Jalandhar, Swapan Sharma, to discuss further strengthening of security protocols in the district.
During the meeting, Spl DGP Arpit Shukla emphasized the need for watertight security arrangements in each jurisdiction across Punjab. He instructed all Station House Officers (SHOs) and Gazetted Officers to remain in the field throughout the festival season and until the Panchayat elections are concluded.
One of the key focuses of the security measures is to clamp down on street crimes and drug-related offenses, particularly at points of sale. Shukla reiterated the importance of following the directives from DGP Gaurav Yadav to curb crimes like extortion, snatching, theft, and burglary, which affect the daily lives of citizens. To this end, CPs and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs) have been tasked with mapping crime-prone areas and identifying hotspots where drug-related activities are prevalent. This data will be used to intensify CCTV surveillance and increase police patrolling to deter criminal activities.
In his review, the Spl DGP also stressed the importance of staying vigilant during the festive season, urging police personnel to be proactive in preventing any incidents that could disturb public order. He instructed CPs and SSPs to take all possible steps to ensure the safety of citizens and to coordinate closely with intelligence units to address potential threats in real-time.
“The security measures are not just about preventing crime but also about making sure that the people of Punjab feel safe during these significant events. Our officers are prepared, and we will continue to monitor every part of the state to avoid any disruptions,” Shukla said.
In a message to the citizens of Punjab, the Spl DGP appealed for their cooperation during this period. He urged residents to stay alert and report any suspicious activity immediately to the authorities. “If anyone notices anything unusual or suspects any activity that could pose a threat to security, they should immediately contact the police on the 112 helpline,” he said. The public’s vigilance and collaboration are critical to maintaining peace and order, particularly during high-stakes events like Dussehra and the Panchayat elections.
These security measures come at a time when the Punjab Police are already working to counter various challenges, including the threat of drug trafficking, street crime, and potential disturbances during high-profile events. The combined efforts of the police, district administration, and citizens are expected to ensure a peaceful celebration of Dussehra and a smooth execution of the Panchayat elections across Punjab.
