Security geared up in Capital, RAF deployed in Sikh populated areas

New Delhi, May 18 (UNI) Security apparatus in the Capital, especially in Sikh pockets, have been geared up and a ''close watch'' is being maintained in view of the turmoil arising out of the 'Dera Sacha Sauda' episode in Punjab.

Additional Commissioner Deependra Pathak told UNI that a pre-emptive alert of sorts is being maintained and security forces mobilised in areas where Sikh population was concentrated to prevent any untoward incident.

''We are keeping a close eye on the situation and all steps have been taken so that nothing goes wrong and peace and tranquility in the Capital is maintained.'' Denying that extra forces had been brought from outside Delhi, Mr Pathak said forces already at the Delhi Police disposal have been stationed at critical points while accepting that Rapid Action Force had been deployed in some areas of West Delhi like Tilak Nagar.

''This was being done keeping in mind the turmoil in neighbouring states,'' he added.

Delhi Police spokesman Rajan Bhagat said regular communication was being maintained with community leaders to prevent any flare up here in view of the volatile situation in Punjab and Haryana.

''All necessary steps have been taken to maintain peace and there was no cause for worry,'' Mr Bhagat added.

UNI