Security tightened ahead of Independence Day

Gorakhpur (UP)/ Agartala (Tripura)/New Delhi, Aug 14: Security has been tightened in sensitive areas across the country, ahead of Independence Day. In Gorakhpur, security was beefed up along the Indo-Nepal border to prevent rebel incursion.

"I have already instructed all my battalions that from August 15 and even a few days later, they have to maintain patrolling for 24-hours, put up check posts and carry out strict checking and frisking," said S. Bandhopadhyay, Deputy Inspector General of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).

The Indo-Bangladesh border has been sealed and security tightened in Tripura. Border police have launched a special drive to prevent movement during the night.

Police have also stepped up security at vital installations, the Civil Secretariat, the Chief Minister's residence, bus stops, busy market places and the airport at Agartala.

"We arranged CPRF in all sensitive places, business centres and places of public gathering. Checking of vehicles, hotels and market places have started," said N. Debnath, the Deputy Superintendent of Police.

In New Delhi, thousands of police personnel have also been deployed at airports, railway stations and crowded markets.

Snipers, metal detectors, x-ray machines, sniffer dogs, and radio frequency jammers have been deployed. Armed personnel with machine guns are on regular patrolling in the city.

"It is good considering the present scenario. Apart from the inconvenience we have to face," said Ravi, a tourist.

Police in over half-a-dozen states spread across eastern, central and southern India have also increased vigil to prevent attacks by Maoists.

But despite the threats, most of the country is expected to celebrate the holiday in peace.

ANI

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