Independence Day celebrations: Taking no chances, Amritsar put on alert

Security was heightened in the city in view of the Independence Day celebrations, as seven companies including two of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) were put on job to keep the city safe.

Security was heightened in the city in view of the Independence Day celebrations, as seven companies including two of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) were put on job to keep the city safe.

Punjab Police personnel during the security check at the railway station ahead of the Independence Day celebrations in Amritsar on Friday. (Gurpreet Singh/HT Photo)

As crime has been on a high in Punjab, the city police are taking no chances to make arrangements for the Independence Day function in which deputy chief minister Sukhbir Badal will hoist the Tricolour.

Talking to HT, Amritsar Police commissioner Amar Singh Chahal said, “We are taking no chances and an extra vigil is being maintained in the city. We have set-up nakas on the bypass, nakas in the city and also the checking of key areas is being done.”

The commissioner also said that security will be given to the people who could be possible targets and the patrolling around sensitive areas such area Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Durgiana Mandir, bus stand and all main bazaars will be enhanced.

To ensure that no untoward incident takes place, the police will also install CCTV cameras at sensitive locations, including the venue of the function.

Two companies of the RAF, five companies of the PA and two companies IRB (Indian Reserve Battalion) have been deputed in the city. Other than this, 300 police personnel will be coming from other districts to secure the city.

Two-wheeler riders asked not to cover faces

In an order, the police commissioner also said that two-wheeler riders will not be allowed to cover faces.

“It has been seen that various crimes are committed by antisocial elements by covering faces. So keeping in mind the sensitivity, we have banned it.”

“We will educate people and also warn them but if still they do not stop covering faces, we can register a case also,” he said.