Security beefed up for Bakrid, Raksha Bandhan

LUCKNOW: Security has been beefed up across the state in view of Bakrid on Wednesday. Police chiefs of districts considered sensitive have been issued asked to check their preparedness and ensure peace during the ongoing Kanwar yatra, Bakrid and Raksha Bandhan next week.

Director general of police (DGP) OP Singh said police chiefs have been issued directions to identify the sensitive areas and make necessary arrangements to avoid any law and order problem during the festivals.

He said some districts like Bareilly, Moradabad, Meerut, Amroha, Sambhal, Ghaziabad and Hapur are in ‘very sensitive districts’ category and their police chiefs have been asked to intensify vigil.

Besides, special directions have been issued for enforcing traffic diversions in Lucknow on Bakrid.

The DGP said as per the state government’s directions, police officials have been asked to ensure that sacrifice of prohibited animals doesn’t take place on Bakrid.

He said chief minister Yogi Adityanath has issued directions to maintain proper vigil to ensure that no untoward incident takes place during the festivals.

Cops have been asked to ensure adequate police presence while namaz is being offered during Bakrid and prayers in temples on Raksha Bandhan. He said as Kanwar yatra is on during the month of Sawan special care should be taken to prevent any flare-up.

In Lucknow, senior superintendent of police Kalanidhi Naithani asked cops to remain extra vigilant in Old city and keep close watch in sensitive areas.

He said cops in civvies are also deployed in areas including Bakra Mandi where animals are sold for the sacrifice.

A detailed advisory on cattle sacrifice on Bakrid has been issued to police personnel.

Police officers have been advised to keep vigil on markets where cattle are sold for sacrifice and ensure no prohibited animal is sold.

They have also been asked to sensitise people about cattle slaughter in covered places, he added.