Three-Layered Security And No-Fly Zone: How Delhi Prepares For PM Modi's Oath Ceremony?

On June 9, at 7:15 PM, Narendra Modi is set to take the oath as Prime Minister of India, as announced by the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday. The members of his council of ministers are also scheduled to be sworn in on Sunday.

These developments followed a meeting where caretaker Prime Minister Modi presented his claim to form the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government to President Droupadi Murmu. With just one day remaining before the swearing-in ceremony, extensive preparations are being undertaken, including a thorough security review.

Changes in Regular Ceremonial Events

The Rashtrapati Bhavan has announced the cancellation of the weekly Change of Guard ceremony on June 8, 15, and 22 to facilitate the preparations for the swearing-in ceremony of the Prime Minister and his council of ministers. President Murmu will also be addressing both houses of Parliament.

In a statement relayed by News18, it was specified that "The Change of Guard ceremony will not take place on 8, 15, and 22 June 2024 at Rashtrapati Bhavan due to the preparation for the Swearing-in Ceremony of Prime Minister and Council of Ministers at Forecourt, Rashtrapati Bhavan and address to both the Houses of Parliament by the President."

The Change of Guard ceremony, a weekly military tradition involving the President's Bodyguards (PBGs), will resume after these dates.

PM Modi's Oath Ceremony: Check Security Measures and Arrangements

A comprehensive three-tier security system is being put in place for the high-profile event, involving various layers of security personnel and measures. The Indian Express reported that internal security at the President's House will be managed by its own personnel, while the outer security will be managed by the Delhi Police, and the middle ring will involve paramilitary forces.

Approximately 2,500 personnel, including officers from the Delhi Armed Police and five companies of paramilitary forces, will be on duty. Additional security measures will include drones, armed police officers, and snipers to ensure the safe travel of dignitaries. The security setup for the event will be similar to the arrangements made for the G20 Summit held the previous year, as indicated by the authorities.

Special security arrangements have been made for the hotels where foreign dignitaries will be staying, including the Taj, Maurya, Leela, and Oberoi. Road closures or traffic diversions in Central Delhi are expected on Sunday, with increased border checks starting from Saturday.

According to ANI, top officials from the Delhi Police have conducted a detailed security review at Rashtrapati Bhavan as part of the preparations for Modi's swearing-in ceremony. Special security measures have also been established for foreign dignitaries attending the event.

Airspace Restrictions

The Delhi Police issued a public advisory on Friday declaring a No-Fly Zone over the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi. This advisory restricts the operation of sub-conventional aerial platforms to prevent any potential threats from criminal or anti-social elements during the swearing-in ceremony. The prohibition will be in effect from June 9 to June 10, 2024, and violators will face penalties under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code.

PM Modi's Oath Ceremony: Notable Guests and Attendees

In line with India's "Neighbourhood First" policy, leaders from neighbouring countries, including Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal, and Mauritius, are expected to attend the swearing-in ceremony, as reported by News18. Indian dignitaries invited include lawyers, doctors, artists, cultural performers, influencers, ambassadors for Viksit Bharat, beneficiaries of central government schemes, tribal women, and sanitation workers. Additionally, participants in Mann Ki Baat, Padma awardees, and about fifty religious leaders from various faiths have been invited.

Workers who contributed to the Central Vista project, which involves the construction of the new Parliament, have also been extended invitations. Surekha Yadav, Asia's first female loco pilot, is among the invitees. Besides prominent politicians and members of both the Treasury Bench and the Opposition, a significant number of individuals from the sports and film industries, as well as notable business leaders and industrialists, will be present.

A source informed News18, "The Prime Minister is known to respect the contribution of every ambassador who has been involved in the building of a strong nation. Gone are the days when the invites were sent only to VIPs and VVIPs. Our Prime Minister considers those who never get their dues or importance as VIP guests."

PM Modi's Oath Ceremony: Latest Developments

Previously, Modi met with President Droupadi Murmu to stake his claim for forming the NDA government under his leadership. J P Nadda, the head of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), delivered a letter to the President on Modi's election, while NDA leaders provided their letters of support.

The President's office confirmed on X that "Exercising powers vested in her under Article 75 (1) of the Constitution of India, President Droupadi Murmu today appointed @narendramodi to the office of Prime Minister of India." The Rashtrapati Bhavan added that the President requested Modi to provide the names of other persons to be appointed members of the Union Council of Ministers and to indicate the date and time of the swearing-in ceremony.

Modi, aged 73, has been formally chosen as the leader of the NDA. The support from the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (United), essential for the ruling alliance, has been secured. With 293 MPs, the NDA holds a strong majority in the 543-member Lok Sabha, with the BJP being the largest party with 240 seats, a decrease from the 303 seats won in the 2019 elections.