Chandigarh, 10 April (H.S.): In view of the protest call given by the Sanyukt Kisan Morcha for April 11, the Haryana Police has put in place extensive arrangements across the state to ensure the maintenance of law and order. A high-level review meeting was chaired by Director General of Police Ajay Singhal at the Police Headquarters to assess preparedness and issue necessary directives to senior officers.

The meeting witnessed participation from top police officials, including Additional Directors General of Police (ADGPs), Inspectors General of Police (IGPs), Police Commissioners, and Superintendents of Police (SPs), many of whom joined via video conferencing. Senior officers such as ADGP CID Saurabh Singh and ADGP Law and Order Sanjay Kumar were also present.

Addressing the officers, DGP Ajay Singhal emphasized the need for heightened vigilance, noting that anti-social elements might attempt to disrupt peace during the proposed protests. He stated that similar incidents have occurred during past agitations, making it crucial to adopt a proactive and robust strategy to prevent any untoward situation.

Singhal directed officials to activate their intelligence networks and ensure adequate deployment of police personnel at identified protest sites. He stressed the importance of proper briefing, instructing that every officer must be fully aware of their roles, responsibilities, and response protocols in different scenarios. While reiterating that peaceful protest is a democratic right, he warned that any attempt to disturb law and order would be dealt with strictly.

Special focus has also been laid on traffic management. District police chiefs have been instructed to prepare diversion plans to ensure smooth vehicular movement and prevent inconvenience to the general public. Additionally, directions were issued to ensure uninterrupted operations in mandis, with no obstruction at entry gates or disruption in the movement of tractor-trolleys.

ADGP Law and Order Sanjay Kumar highlighted the need for strict surveillance on miscreants and directed intensified monitoring at sensitive points such as highways and toll plazas. He assured that additional police forces would be deployed promptly wherever required.

Meanwhile, ADGP CID Saurabh Singh emphasized the importance of dialogue with farmer leaders, stating that effective communication can help resolve most issues. He underlined that the ongoing period is critical for crop procurement and lifting, and maintaining smooth operations in mandis remains a priority.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH