New Delhi: Traditional Tazia processions will be taken out in the capital, Delhi, on Friday to mark ‘Ashura’—the 10th day of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar. The Delhi Police has put in place stringent security arrangements to maintain law and order and ensure a peaceful atmosphere. According to officials, drones and modern technology will be extensively used to monitor sensitive and crowded areas.
Deployment of Over 2,000 Police Personnel
Special vigilance is being exercised during the processions, particularly in the North-East and North Delhi areas. To bolster security, more than 2,000 local police personnel and companies of paramilitary forces are being deployed across these two districts. North-East Delhi DCP Rahul Alwal stated that, in addition to 1,100 local police personnel, 20 companies of security forces would be deployed in his area. Meanwhile, North Delhi DCP Raja Banthia stated that external security forces, alongside 5 ACPs, 37 inspectors, and 924 other police personnel, would handle security duties in his district.
Use of Drones and Facial Recognition Software
Delhi Police is leveraging modern technology to ensure robust security. A total of 14 drones will be deployed to keep an aerial watch on the crowds. Additionally, facial recognition software will be used to identify suspicious individuals and criminal elements. Videographers, riot control equipment, and quick reaction teams will remain on high alert at sensitive locations.
Meetings with Peace Committees
To maintain peace and order, the police administration has held approximately 21 rounds of meetings—ranging from the police station level to the DCP level—with prominent local figures, brotherhood committees, and peace committees. Since Ashura falls on a Friday this year, the procession will commence at 3 PM, following the Jumma (Friday) prayers. Parvez Noor, chief patron of the organizing body ‘Anjuman Taziyadaran’, stated that the main processions originating from Jama Masjid and Pul Bangash will converge at Paharganj after traversing various routes and proceed from there to the Karbala in Jor Bagh. To ensure smooth security arrangements, ten special volunteers will accompany each taziya.
