With Durga Puja just around the corner, the district administration and police are in full alert mode to ensure the festival is celebrated in a peaceful and safe environment. In a proactive move, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kishore Kaushal held a key meeting on Sunday with Tiger Mobile, Tango, and PCR jawans at the PCR premises. The objective was to review security arrangements and give necessary instructions to law enforcement teams to maintain law and order during the festivities.
Addressing the assembled officers, SSP Kaushal emphasized the importance of regular patrolling, especially in crowded areas where large gatherings are expected. He instructed the teams to remain vigilant and mobile, ensuring that no disturbances arise. "No team should remain stationed in one place. Continuous movement is crucial to maintaining peace and preventing inconvenience to the public during the Puja," he said.
One of the key concerns raised by the police was rash driving, which often spikes during festival times. SSP Kaushal revealed that specific areas prone to reckless driving have been identified, and special traffic monitoring teams will be deployed at these spots. "Immediate action will be taken against those engaging in rash driving. Their vehicles will be seized on the spot," he warned, sending a strong message to deter dangerous driving and protect public safety during the celebrations.
In addition to ramping up security efforts, the district police have issued an appeal to the public, urging everyone to celebrate Durga Puja in a spirit of harmony and goodwill. Citizens have been requested to cooperate with the authorities in maintaining peace and order during the festival. A significant part of this appeal is a warning against the spread of misinformation and provocative content on social media.
The police have specifically asked the public to refrain from sharing misleading information, photos, videos, or making any objectionable comments that could hurt communal sentiments or incite violence. "Spreading rumours or inflammatory posts on social media that disturb communal harmony is a punishable offense," SSP Kaushal cautioned. The police assured that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found guilty of such activities, with cases registered under relevant sections of the law.
As part of the security measures, the district police have released two 24x7 active helpline numbers—7091091825 and 9508280796—for the public to report any suspicious or provocative content they come across, particularly on social media. The helpline, which is managed by the Composite Control Room, allows citizens to share any concerns via WhatsApp or by calling directly. The police have assured that the identity of those providing information will be kept confidential.
SSP Kaushal emphasized that the public plays a vital role in maintaining peace during such large-scale events and urged everyone to report any attempts to spread discord. "We request the public to stay alert and immediately inform the nearest police station or use the provided helpline numbers if they encounter any objectionable material during the Puja," he said.
