Security beefed up at embassies; 15,000 cops out for Holi

Delhi Police has stepped up security across the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri and increased patrolling outside the embassies of the United States, Israel, and Iran amid escalating tensions following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli military strike on Sunday.

Police said prohibitory orders under BNSS Section 163, which bars gatherings, have been imposed across the diplomatic area. Barricades have been put up around the US and Israeli embassies, and additional personnel have been deployed.

Security has also been increased at big markets and religious places that often see high footfall. Police officers said intelligence agencies are monitoring the situation in the West Asian countries closely, as well as its impact on India’s internal security.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs has asked States to keep an eye on pro-Iran radical preachers giving inflammatory statements that may result in violence in the wake of the Israel-US attack on Iran, officials said.

In a letter circulated to all States on February 28, the Ministry also asked all states and UTs to keep vigil on social media activities of extremists and global terror group handles, they said. Advising the states to ensure that no law-and-order issues arise, the ministry has asked the States to heighten vigilance, as global events might have a domestic ripple effect through rhetorical statements, they said.

The circular asked the states to increase security at consulates, embassies, and other diplomatic offices of the USA and Israel in their jurisdictions, and at other entities of the two countries to prevent any untoward incident and maintain peace and tranquillity. One Sunday, visuals showed groups of people outside the Iran Cultural House in Delhi, where a meeting was scheduled to mark Khamenei’s death. Some protesters were also seen raising slogans in parts of Jor Bagh, expressing grief over the Iranian leader’s death. According to police, more than 15,000 police personnel will be deployed across Delhi on Wednesday to maintain law and order during Holi celebrations, with special focus on preventing drunken driving and motorcycle stunts. Police said elaborate security arrangements have been put in place to ensure that the festival of colours is celebrated peacefully and safely.

Senior officers said teams will be stationed at sensitive locations, major intersections, markets and residential areas to prevent any untoward incident. Police personnel, including district police staff, traffic personnel and PCR units, will conduct intensified patrolling across the city. Special checking drives will be carried out to curb drunken driving, rash driving and dangerous stunts on motorcycles.

Multiple pickets will be set up at prominent roads and border points, officials said, adding that traffic police teams equipped with breath analysers, speed checking metres will conduct checks throughout the day to identify and prosecute those driving under the influence of alcohol.

“Action will also be taken against triple riding, over-speeding and performing wheelies or other stunts on two-wheelers. Adequate arrangements have also been made to ensure a quick response to PCR calls. Anti-sabotage checks will be conducted at crowded places, and plainclothes personnel will be deployed to keep a watch on mischief-makers,” a senior police officer said.

The officer further said Delhi Police extends heartfelt greetings to the people of Delhi on the occasion of Holi. “We urge everyone to celebrate the festival safely and responsibly,” the officer said.

Police have also appealed to citizens to respect public order, avoid forceful colouring and refrain from creating a nuisance in public places.