Security agencies breathe easy as I-Day passes off peacefully

New Delhi, Aug 15 (UNI) No sooner had Prime Minister Manmohan Singh left the Red Fort, the venue for Independence Day celebrations, after unfurling the tricolour and addressing the nation, than security agencies heaved a sigh of relief and a smile flitted across their lips, in a clear sign of deep satisfaction among them over the peaceful passing of the event.

''We are overjoyed and glad that we could provide complete security for such a big event and it passed off without incident. It was no mean task to arrange such a huge security cover for the majestic event which is watched by one and all across the world,'' a Delhi Police official told UNI on condition of anonymity.

Soon after the departure of the PM, security personnel were seen quite relaxed as they started making their exits gleefully.

''A terror threat was there and we worked overtime to ensure that militants do not succeed in their nefarious designs. We had taken almost every measure to thwart their plans. We have shown the ultras that their threats and thundering noises have no impact on us and our country knows how to deal with such elements with an iron hand,'' he said with pride in his voice.

After the PM's exit, air surveillance came to an end, anti-aircraft cannons were lowered and the rifles came off the shoulders of security personnel, showing the easing of pressure off their minds.

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