The Odisha government has unveiled extensive security arrangements ahead of the revered Rath Yatra of Sri Jagannath in Puri. A recent notification from the Revenue Department appointed 90 OAS and ORS officers as Executive Magistrates, temporarily reassigned from various districts to oversee law and order from 3rd to 19th July.
These officers, serving as Tahsildars, BDOs, and Executive Officers, will play a crucial role in maintaining public order during the festival. In a meeting led by Police DG Arun Kumar Sarangi, security protocols were discussed in detail. Sarangi highlighted, “A contingent of 180 police platoons will be deployed for this year’s Rath Yatra.”
The security apparatus will feature 4 Additional DG-level officers, 6 IG and DIG-level officers, 19 Commandants or SP-level officers, 33 Additional SPs or Deputy Commandants, 75 Assistant Commanders or DSPs, along with 130 inspectors and 675 ASI and SI rank officers. Three platoons of the State Armed Force (SAF) are assigned, and a request for 5 companies of the Rapid Action Force has been made to the central government.
To manage parking, authorities are planning drone surveillance of parking areas, with real-time updates shared on social media platforms. Special security arrangements are being devised for dignitaries, including the President, ensuring a high level of protection throughout Puri during the festivities.
SP Pinak Mishra and other senior IPS officers emphasized the significance of the Rath Yatra and the government’s steadfast commitment to its smooth and secure execution. This proactive approach aims to safeguard the spiritual essence and communal harmony integral to the Jagannath Rath Yatra.