Security tightened in Delhi ahead of Independence Day celebrations
The Red Fort, where PM Narendra Modi will hoist flag and address the nation on August 15, has been closed for the public from July 26.
New Delhi: With Independence Day around the corner, Delhi Police has taken extensive measures to ensure the safety of the national capital. The iconic Red Fort, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will unfurl the flag and address the nation on August 15, has been off-limits to the public since July 26. The Special Protection Group (SPG) has assumed control of the area, ensuring its protection and thorough sanitization.
Delhi Police conducted a comprehensive security assessment between July 27 and July 29, pinpointing 100 vulnerable spots across the city. Deputy Commissioner of Police, HQ & TYR, Special Cell, has instructed local police stations to rectify security issues identified at places like hotels, guesthouses, busy markets, taxi stands, parking lots, cyber cafes, PG accommodations, cinema halls, malls, and other locations.
Prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC have been enforced in the Red Fort vicinity, including Rajghat and ITO. Delhi Police tweeted, “No gathering of any kind is permitted in these areas.”
Efforts are being made to inform local residents about the prohibition on kite flying near the Red Fort. A team of experienced kite-flyers is assisting in raising awareness about this restriction.
For Independence Day celebrations, a robust multi-layered security plan has been devised, involving the National Security Guard (NSG), Special Protection Group (SPG), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), and Delhi Police. Paramilitary forces will encircle the Red Fort area within a 200-meter radius, while Delhi Police will oversee the remaining territory.
Delhi Police is also incorporating technology-driven safety measures. Automated facial recognition systems will be deployed inside and outside the Red Fort’s gates, enabling the monitoring of suspicious activity. A temporary control room will facilitate coordination among security personnel, and spotters with binoculars will be stationed at approximately 300 buildings in the Red Fort area to alert authorities about any unusual movements.
In addition to the capital, the Border Security Force (BSF) has launched “Operation Alert” along the India-Pakistan international border from August 11 to August 17. This operation aims to prevent smuggling and infiltration, involving increased camel and foot patrols, fortified security checkpoints, and enhanced overall monitoring in the region.
Ms Kalinga