• Source:JND
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The police have implemented robust security measures for the Holi festival in UP's Meerut. Namaz on Friday will be offered in mosques only after 2:00 PM, with individuals encouraged to offer namaz at home before that time. In Muslim-majority areas, CCTV cameras along key roads will be connected to local police stations and outposts, enabling real-time monitoring of these routes. Additionally, drones will be deployed to survey mixed-population areas.

The PAC (Provincial Armed Constabulary) and RAF (Rapid Action Force) will be stationed throughout the city during Holika Dahan and Holi celebrations. SSP Dr Vipin Tada confirmed that police officers from local stations and outposts will be patrolling their assigned areas. Officers in cluster mobiles will be equipped with helmets and body armour for enhanced safety.

To further ensure security in mixed-population areas, both the PAC and RAF will be deployed. The city and surrounding areas have been divided into 14 zones and 32 sectors, with each zone assigned to an ACM (Additional Commissioner of Police) and CO (Circle Officer). The responsibility for overseeing the security in each sector has been delegated to police station in-charges and administrative officers.

In discussions with Muslim religious leaders, it was agreed that prayers will be offered in mosques only after 2:00 PM, while community members are encouraged to offer prayers at home before that time. The police have also made it clear that no Holika should be set up at non-traditional locations. The responsibility for ensuring this will lie with the in-charge officers of police stations and outposts.

Additionally, cyber and surveillance teams have been deployed to monitor online activity during the festival. Strict action will be taken against individuals who upload videos or make inflammatory comments that could disrupt the peace. A dedicated police team will be actively monitoring internet media from Holika Dahan till Holi, ensuring that any posts or videos that threaten the public order are promptly addressed.