Security tightened for Hanuman Jayanti tomorrow

New Delhi: A multi-layered security arrangement has been put in place for Thursday’s Hanuman Jayanti celebrations in northwest Delhi.

The procession route in Jahangirpuri has been extended to 2km from its previous, shorter stretch. Security has been significantly strengthened along the entire path to prevent any recurrence of the stone-pelting incidents that led to violence during the 2022 procession.

The procession will commence after 10am from opposite the Delhi Jal Board DDA flats in Jahangirpuri, proceed along Mahindra Park and culminate at Sai Mandir in Adarsh Nagar.

Deputy commissioner of police (Northwest) Akanksha Yadav said the procession will be conducted strictly within the fixed time window. “There will be 10 companies of outside forces deployed along the route to ensure no untoward incident takes place,” she added.

Another officer said four drones will be deployed to monitor the movements of the procession, providing real-time surveillance. The aerial monitoring will be supplemented by the installation of more than 100 additional CCTV cameras along the entire route, covering key entry and exit points, intersections and other critical locations. Moreover, about 150 Delhi Police personnel will be deployed to manage crowd control and ensure that law and order are maintained throughout the procession.

“Strategic arrangements include the installation of barricades, establishment of pickets at critical locations and intensive patrolling in sensitive pockets. Effective traffic management, including diversions, has been planned in coordination with Delhi Traffic Police and other agencies to ensure smooth vehicular movement and public convenience while maintaining security,” the officer said.

Police have issued strict guidelines for organisers and participants. Attendance will be capped at 500 individuals, and no animals or unauthorised structures will be permitted. Carrying of weapons, firearms, lathis or any hazardous items is strictly prohibited. Participants have been instructed to refrain from provocative slogans, speeches or activities that may disrupt communal harmony. Use of loudspeakers is allowed only in accordance with prescribed norms and timing restrictions.

Organisers are also required to deploy volunteers to assist police personnel in regulating the procession and ensuring orderly conduct. “These measures aim to guarantee the Hanuman Jayanti celebrations are conducted peacefully, with the safety of participants and the general public prioritised throughout the event,” said the officer.

On April 16, 2022, violence had erupted in Jahangirpuri’s C Block during a Hanuman Jayanti procession, resulting in injuries to nine people, including eight police personnel. Following the incident, 37 people were arrested in connection with the clashes.