With Holi and Friday Namaz Coinciding UP on high alert , Police conduct flag marches in sensitive areas, deploy PAC
Uttar Pradesh has been placed on high alert as the festival of Holi coincides with Friday prayers (namaz) on March 14. In light of this, the state administration has intensified security measures to ensure that celebrations remain peaceful and that no disruptions occur.
To maintain law and order during the festivities, the Uttar Pradesh police have implemented stringent security protocols across the state. Authorities have also directed law enforcement to conduct large-scale flag marches, particularly in cities and areas classified as sensitive. These flag marches are being carried out to instill a sense of safety among residents and deter any potential miscreants from attempting to create unrest.
Police personnel have been deployed in full strength across all districts identified as sensitive, with strict instructions to take immediate action against individuals or groups attempting to disturb public harmony. Given that Holi celebrations and the Friday prayers of Ramzan are set to take place on the same day, security forces are maintaining extra vigilance. Intelligence units and local authorities have been ordered to monitor any developments that could lead to unrest, ensuring swift intervention if needed.
More than 60 contingents of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) have been stationed in critical locations to bolster security measures. Special attention has been given to religious and culturally significant cities such as Kashi, Mathura, and Ayodhya, where large gatherings are expected. Holi processions will be closely monitored with the use of advanced drone cameras to provide real-time surveillance, ensuring that any potential disturbances are addressed promptly.
A senior police official emphasized that the convergence of Holi festivities and Friday prayers during the holy month of Ramzan requires heightened vigilance. In response to this, security agencies have intensified their efforts to monitor social media platforms, keeping a close watch on any attempts to spread inflammatory content or misinformation. The Uttar Pradesh police have deployed a specialized digital monitoring team tasked with identifying and countering fake news or malicious propaganda. Legal action will be taken against individuals found responsible for spreading false information that could incite violence or panic among the public.
With Holika Dahan scheduled to take place on the night of March 13, followed by Holi celebrations on March 14, the police have implemented a comprehensive security plan to prevent any untoward incidents. Under the directives of Director General of Police (DGP) Prashant Kumar, security personnel have been assigned to all areas deemed sensitive.
Additionally, in anticipation of possible medical emergencies, district hospitals have been instructed to ensure that essential life-saving medicines and medical equipment are available at all times. Emergency response services, including the 108 ambulance service and mobile medical units, will be fully operational 24/7 to provide immediate assistance if needed.
The administration has also devised a strategic plan involving specialized task forces. Special teams, including “poster parties” and “morning checking teams,” have been formed with well-defined roles and responsibilities. These units will actively work to identify and remove objectionable posters or banners that may incite communal tensions. Furthermore, senior officers will personally supervise regular foot patrols in busy marketplaces and commercial hubs, reinforcing a sense of security among business owners and the general public.
To further strengthen security arrangements, law enforcement officials will hold meetings with business organizations and community leaders to address their concerns and ensure that their establishments remain safe during the celebrations. Security personnel, including bomb detection squads and sniffer dog teams, will conduct thorough inspections of crowded areas, major marketplaces, and other key establishments. Additionally, fire safety measures will be reviewed, and emergency firefighting arrangements will be kept on standby to address any unforeseen incidents.
The state government is leaving no stone unturned in its efforts to maintain peace and order during this crucial period. The comprehensive and multilayered security strategy aims to ensure that Holi celebrations remain joyous and that Friday prayers proceed without disruption. Authorities remain committed to preventing any untoward incidents, ensuring a safe and harmonious atmosphere for all citizens during this significant occasion.
