Security geared up in Capital, RAF deployed in some areas

New Delhi, May 18 (UNI) Security in the Capital was today tightened following a bomb blast in Hyderabad and in view of the turmoil arising out of the 'Dera Sacha Sauda' episode in Punjab.

Following the blasts, additional forces were places around sensitive buildings and market places all over the Capital, said Additional Commissioner Deependra Pathak, adding that a pre-emptive alert of sorts is being maintained and security forces mobilised in 'sensitive areas'.

''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.'' Special attention has been paid to areas where the minority population was concentrated to prevent any untoward incident, he said.

Denying that extra forces had been brought from outside Delhi, Mr Pathak said forces already at the Delhi Police's disposal have been stationed at critical points while Rapid Action Force had been deployed in some areas of West Delhi like Tilak Nagar where Sikh population was in large numbers.

''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.'' Railway stations, bus terminus, Metro and all leading markets have been placed under vigil and checking in few areas begun to curb movement of mischief mongers, Mr Bhagat added.

UNI