'Terrorist spotters' deployed at Ardh Kumbh Mela

Allahabad, Jan 4 (UNI) Taking note of the recent terrorist attacks on Ram Janambhoomi in Ayodhya and Sankatmochan Temple at Varanasi, the Uttar Pradesh government has sought services of 'terrorist spotters' as part of the comprehensive security plan for Ardh Kumbh Mela, that commenced here yesterday.

A total of 85 'terrorist spotters' drawn from all over the country have reached here to man the month-long Ardh Kumbh, arguably the world's largest religious congregation.

According to an official estimate, about nine crore devotees are at the Ardh Kumbh, besides lakhs of saints and 'kalpvasis' staying put in the mela area.

Considering the volume of congregation and the prevailing threat perception, the state government has taken elaborate security measures, which also include anti-mine and bomb disposal equipment.

''Yes, we have deployed 'terrorist spotters' in the mela area.

They are expert in identifying terrorists and other such elements and have been asked to operate in teams,'' Rajiv Sabbharwal, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Ardh Kumbh Mela told UNI.

He, however, declined to divulge much saying it involved security strategy. ''Some of the measures have been taken for the first time in such fairs.'' In all, 12 commando squads, 12 anti-mine teams and 10 anti-sabotage teams would also be stationed round-the-clock.

Besides, 28 close circuit cameras would be placed in-and-outside the mela area at 'hot spots' to keep an eye over the entry of suspected elements during the event.

The administration has requisitioned the services of 300 Border Security Force (BSF) and Rapid Action Force jawans, who have brought photographs of dreaded terrorists with them.

Approximately 11,000 police personnel of UP Police are deployed in the mela area, where 25 police stations and as many police outposts have been set up. Besides, 60 companies of para military forces are deployed in the area.

The Uttar Pradesh government is not taking any chances as far as the security is concerned, especially in the light of the fact that two prominent religious places had already been targetted by terrorists in the recent past.

Several lives were lost in these two incidents as well as another incident of bomb explosion aboard Sharmjeevi Express within UP.

A team of intelligence and police officials have been constituted to scan the activities of suspected persons.

Meanwhile, Allahabad Police and Ardh Kumbh Mela police have jointly launched a drive at all the cyber cafes in the Sangam city.

A list is also being prepared of new tenants, who have occupied rooms and accommodations in-and-around the city in the last two months. Details regarding their profession are also being collected.

UNI