CISF back to frisking at metro train stations

Lacking confidence in the efficiency of security personnel, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has lifted the ban on frisking in metro stations with effect from August 11. Subhendu Ray reports.

Lacking confidence in the efficiency of security personnel, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has lifted the ban on frisking in metro stations with effect from August 11.

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The MHA felt that without frisking it would be difficult to ensure security in metro stations, at least till the ensuing Independence Day.

"We have received the order to reinitiate frisking at all metro stations. The decision has been taken keeping in mind passenger security and safety. As per the order, frisking will continue at least till August 15," said Rohit Katiyar, spokesperson of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).

Towards the end of July, all agencies concerned including the MHA, Union and state governments, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) and CISF, took a decision not to frisk commuters as the process leads to long queues at entry points in metro stations.

Commuters have given a mixed reaction to this decision.

"We appreciated the decision of putting a stop on frisking because that consumed a lot of time. But we are surprised to see government’s lack of confidence on its security personnel," said Kumar Sridhar, a resident of Paschim Vihar.

But another commuter, Manisha Sharma of Raja Garden, had a different take.

"We are okay with little delay because of frisking. We cannot depend on profiling by our security agencies until they prove their efficiency. It’s good that frisking is back and we want it to continue at least till the CW Games are over."