Heavy security arrangements in Bihar over intelligence alerts

Initiating measures after intelligence alerts on chances of communal tension and terrorist strikes during Durga Puja and Bakrid festivals, the Bihar government has deployed a large number of security personnel at over 100 sensitive places to prevent any untoward incident.
The special security arrangements will continue till the end of this month when Diwali and Chhath festivals are scheduled.
"There have been intelligence alerts regarding communal tension and terror activities. Though they are of general natures, we have identified over 100 communally sensitive hotspots across the state and made heavy security arrangements," Bihar Director General of Police (DGP) P K Thakur told reporters today.

The DGP said that apart from the regular police force, Rapid Action Force (RAF), State RAF and Bihar Military Police (BMP) personnel have also been deployed.
Special Task Force and Anti Terrorist Squad (ATS) have been kept in readiness to tackle any untoward incident, while intelligence officials have been deputed at various places.
"The chances of communal conflagration are more during the idol immersion time, when large groups of people come out on the streets, often beyond the time allotted to them. This time Durga immersion and Bakrid are coinciding. We will ensure that no untoward incident happens around it," the DGP added.

Thakur said the police forces will ensure that the immersion route mentioned in the license given to the Durga Puja committees are strictly adhered to so that other people do not face any difficulty.

"Strict action will be taken against Durga Puja committees that violate the conditions mentioned in the licenses given to them. Police control rooms and district control rooms will keep a round-the-clock watch on the situation," Thakur added.
The state police chief appealed to the people to alert police officials or magistrates if they see any suspicious thing or activity.
He also asked them not to believe rumours, saying their cooperation will help peaceful celebrations in the state during this festival season.