Security beefed up for Independence Day in Jaipur

JAIPUR: Following intelligence inputs in the backdrop of the government removing special status for Jammu and Kashmir, unprecedented security arrangements have been put in place in Jaipur ahead of Independence Day. The police are on high alert.
Additional commissioner of police (law and order) Ajay Pal Lamba told TOI that nakkas (check points) have been set up at six entry points of Jaipur at Ajmer, Tonk, Phagi, Delhi and Agra roads.
“The police teams at these check points are keeping a close vigil over each vehicle entering into the city so that no suspect could enter the city. These check points are also there to ensure that explosive materials don’t enter the city,” he said.
The sources informed TOI that the central intelligence agencies had recently asked Rajasthan and other border districts to tighten up security arrangements. The alert was issued in the wake of the government’s decision over Article 370. An official informed TOI that although security is beefed up ahead of August 15 every year, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir has presented different a challenge this year.
The intelligence unit of the city police are collecting inputs from different areas of the city. Like always, the intelligence units suspect that social media could be used to fan passions. A dedicated unit of the police are conducting a round the clock checks and search operations at all railways stations, and bus stands.
“The check and search operation are being conducted in multiple shifts,” an official said. “The police informers keep a close eye on budget hotels, small hostels and rest houses. If a suspect checks in, the informer alerts the beat cop,” an official said.
In addition to hotel and guest houses, the security arrangements outside all major places of worships have been increased by the police. The city police’s control room is keeping a check at crowded places through CCTV monitors.
Lamba told TOI that about 1,200 security personnel will be deployed in the city for August 15. “The commando crews of Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) have been deployed at important locations to avert any untoward situation,” he said.
The sources said that for August 15, a special intelligence control room has been set-up at SMS stadium for security coordination. “The security has been intensified in the city. The reserve forces have also moved in,” added an official. The police told TOI that some special units have also be positioned near VIP areas.