Lucknow, February 11: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed strict action against those attempting to disrupt peace during various festivals, including Holi, Mahashivratri, and Ramzan.
During a detailed review of the state’s law and order situation with senior government officials on Wednesday, the Chief Minister stated that Holi will be celebrated from March 2 to 4. There should be an atmosphere of joy and happiness during Holi festival throughout the state, including the Braj region. Ensure that unruly elements do not infiltrate the processions under any circumstances. Strict action should be taken against those who disrupt the celebrations, those who incite frenzy, and those who create chaos.
Administrative and police officers from all divisions, police zones, ranges, and districts participated in the meeting via video conferencing.
The Chief Minister stated that learning from incidents that occurred during festivals in the past, vigilance, monitoring, and management should be further strengthened in accordance with local needs.
Regarding the use of loudspeakers at religious places, CM Yogi has made clear instructions that their sound should not be transmitted outside the premises under any circumstances. Such activities have previously caused law and order challenges. Therefore, activities violating these rules should be stopped immediately. There will be a complete ban on the use of DJs, sound systems, or loud sound devices after 10 pm at weddings and other social gatherings. Strict action should be taken in case of violations.
The Chief Minister stated that Holika Dahan should be conducted only at traditional sites. Under no circumstances should it be performed in the middle of the road. Social media platforms should also be continuously monitored. In view of the upcoming Mahashivratri, Holi, Ramzan, the Secondary Education Board examinations, the census, and other important events, the Chief Minister directed that all necessary arrangements be made in a timely manner, keeping peace, security, and public order as the highest priority in the state.
While directing the security of Kanwar pilgrims going out to offer water on the occasion of Mahashivratri, the Chief Minister urged the police and administration to remain fully alert to prevent any accidents. The Director General of Police informed the Chief Minister that necessary guidelines have been issued to the police force in this regard.
The Chief Minister inquired from the District Magistrates of Varanasi, Meerut, Lakhimpur Kheri, and Barabanki about preparations for darshan and puja at major Shiva temples on Mahashivratri. He stated that a large number of devotees will arrive at major Shiva temples on February 14 and 15. The NDRF and the SDRF teams should be active 24×7 to ensure the convenience of devotees, smooth darshan, traffic, parking, women’s safety, and emergency response. Police personnel deployed in temple complexes should treat devotees with respect and ensure the deployment of adequate women personnel.
The Chief Minister directed that the major factors causing traffic jams be identified and permanent solutions be found. Long-term and practical measures should be implemented instead of temporary arrangements to avoid unnecessary inconvenience to the public.
The Chief Minister stated that an increase in begging activities around religious places has been noticed. This should be effectively curbed and a plan for appropriate rehabilitation of the affected individuals should be developed.
The Chief Minister directed concrete steps to improve the response time and efficiency of the 108 and 102 ambulance services. Any laxity in emergency services will not be tolerated. Directing for complete control over the manufacture, storage, and sale of illegal, poisonous, and spurious liquor, the Chief Minister urged all concerned departments to remain constantly vigilant in this regard. Prompt and strict action should be taken upon receiving information about any such activity. Special vigilance should be exercised against unruly elements performing stunts on roads and public places.
The Chief Minister stated that the Secondary Education Board’s Class 10 and 12 examinations are beginning on February 18. The examinations should be conducted without cheating, and strict action should be taken against those who compromise the sanctity of the examinations. The month of Ramadan will also begin during this period, and Eid will likely be celebrated on March 21. Peace and harmony should be maintained by communicating with religious leaders. No new traditions should be started under any circumstances.
The Chief Minister stated that Vasantik Navratri will begin on March 19, followed by the festival of Ram Navami. Preparations for all these events should be completed on time. Furthermore, the Chief Minister informed that the first phase of the census is commencing in the coming days. All District Magistrates should ensure necessary preparations for it.
Yogi stressed the need to be extremely vigilant regarding security arrangements. Every department should discharge its responsibilities with complete honesty and accountability.