UditVani, Ranchi : Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Thursday chaired a high-level review meeting to assess law and order preparedness across the state in view of upcoming festivals including Eid, Sarhul, Ram Navami, Hanuman Jayanti, and Mahavir Jayanti.
The meeting was held at the Chief Minister’s Residential Office in Ranchi, with senior officials present physically, while Deputy Commissioners (DCs) and Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs)/Superintendents of Police (SPs) from all districts joined via video conferencing.
Emphasizing the importance of maintaining communal harmony, the Chief Minister directed the police and district administration to remain on high alert and ensure that all festivals are conducted peacefully.
He issued strict instructions for swift and stringent action against any elements attempting to disrupt law and order, stating that no form of unrest, violence, or disturbance would be tolerated under the guise of celebrations.
Soren stressed the need for adequate deployment of security personnel across the state, particularly in sensitive areas and around religious places.
He instructed officials to identify vulnerable zones in advance and ensure heightened vigilance to prevent any untoward incidents.
He also underlined the importance of engaging informers to enable real-time intelligence gathering and proactive response to potential threats.
Highlighting concerns around large gatherings and processions, the Chief Minister directed that all procession routes be physically verified and closely monitored.
Adequate security arrangements, including deployment of personnel and availability of necessary equipment, must be ensured along these routes.
He also called for the creation of “safe zones” along procession paths to facilitate swift evacuation and emergency response in case of any mishap.
The Chief Minister laid special emphasis on comprehensive documentation of all procession-related activities, stating that such records would aid in better planning and strengthening security strategies for future events.
Additionally, he instructed officials to ensure that provocative or inflammatory songs are not played during processions under any circumstances.
District administrations have been asked to coordinate with local committees and provide pre-approved recorded music to avoid any disputes.
Soren also directed strict surveillance of social media platforms, warning that misinformation or rumours could escalate tensions.
He instructed authorities to identify and take immediate action against individuals spreading false information or attempting to incite unrest online.
Special arrangements have also been mandated for the safety of women and children, who participate in large numbers during festive processions.
The Chief Minister called for adequate measures to ensure their safety and quick evacuation in case of emergencies.
Further, he instructed districts to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply, public announcement systems, CCTV surveillance at sensitive locations, and videography of all major events. Use of drones for aerial surveillance has also been recommended.
Emergency services, including fire brigades, ambulances, riot control vehicles, and water cannons, must be kept on standby.
The Chief Minister also reiterated the need to comply with court directives, including regulations related to the size of flags used during processions.
Senior officials present at the meeting included Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Vandana Dadel, Director General of Police T. Kandaswamy, and other top police and administrative officers.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Soren urged all district administrations to work in coordination with communities to ensure that the festive season passes off peacefully, without any disruption.
