THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, March 19: Emphasising zero tolerance for disturbances during the festive season, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Thursday directed police and district administrations to remain on high alert and ensure peaceful celebrations across the state.
The Chief Minister issued the directives during a high-level review meeting held via video conferencing with Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents/Superintendents of Police of all districts ahead of Eid, Sarhul and Ram Navami.
Strict Action Against Disruption
Soren made it clear that any attempt to disturb law and order in the name of festivals would not be tolerated. He instructed the police to take swift and strict action against troublemakers, stressing that all celebrations must take place in an atmosphere of peace and communal harmony.
Directing officials to remain on 24×7 alert, the Chief Minister called for adequate deployment of police forces across districts. He also asked authorities to engage informants to ensure timely intelligence on any suspicious activities.
He noted that security arrangements must remain robust not only for Eid, Sarhul and Ram Navami, but also for other upcoming festivals such as Hanuman Jayanti and Mahavir Jayanti.
ALSO READ: CM Hemant Soren felicitates winners at Jharkhand police sports meet finale
Focus on Sensitive Areas and Religious Sites
The Chief Minister instructed district administrations to ensure tight security in sensitive areas and around religious places. He emphasised that no activity capable of disturbing peace should be allowed and called for active cooperation from all communities.
Special vigilance has been ordered in crowded areas and along procession routes (Shobha Yatras). Officials have been directed to physically verify routes in advance and ensure all necessary security arrangements are in place.
Soren also instructed that no provocative or inflammatory songs be played during processions, and asked authorities to coordinate with organisers to ensure compliance.
CCTV, Drones and Emergency Preparedness
To strengthen surveillance, the Chief Minister directed the installation of CCTV cameras at key locations and videography of all processions. He also called for drone-based aerial monitoring along procession routes.
Emergency services—including ambulances, fire tenders, water cannons and anti-riot vehicles—have been ordered to remain on standby for immediate deployment.
The Chief Minister instructed officials to establish ‘safe zones’ along procession routes, equipped to handle emergencies and ensure safe evacuation if required.
He also emphasised special arrangements for the safety of women and children, who participate in large numbers during festival processions.
Crackdown on Rumours, Social Media Monitoring
Soren directed authorities to keep a strict watch on social media and take immediate action against those spreading rumours or attempting to incite unrest.
He said anti-social elements must be identified and dealt with firmly to prevent any disruption.
Documentation for Future Planning
The Chief Minister also called for comprehensive documentation of all activities during processions and events, noting that this would help improve planning and security strategies for future festivals.
The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Vandana Dadel, DGP Tadasha Mishra, and other senior officials.
