Puri: ‘Section 144 during Rath Yatra won’t affect locals in distress’

Puri SP Kanwar Vishal Singh speaks to Debabrata Mohapatra on security arrangements for the Rath Yatra, which will begin on July 12.
Tell us about the security arrangements?
It is almost in the final stages. A few days ago the director general of police, director intelligence, additional director general (law and order) and deputy inspector general (intelligence) reviewed our preparedness. The DGP appreciated the security blueprint. We will leave no stone unturned for a peaceful and incident-free Rath Yatra. Deployment of police force and officers would be finalized in a day or two.
Without devotees, is it a relief for the police given that there won’t be much of crowd control and traffic regulation?
Even though devotees will not be allowed to attend the Rath Yatra in view of Covid-19 restrictions, we still face a challenge to ensure a hassle-free festival with compliance of Covid-safety protocols. Proper enforcement of prohibitory orders under Section 144 of CrPC to prevent the gathering of people near the temple and Grand Road, where the chariots will roll, will also be another challenge.
We will have to prevent unauthorized access into the temple as well. We will show zero tolerance to violators of standard operating procedure (SOP). Like last year, we seek people’s cooperation to comply with government’s order in view of the pandemic.
What steps are being taken so that locals are not affected due to Section 144?
Last year, Section 144 of CrPC was imposed across Puri district to prevent the congregation of devotees during Rath Yatra. This time, the prohibitory orders would remain in force only across Puri town. People in need, especially those looking for medical help and other emergencies, will not face any trouble. Our personnel have been briefed not to harass people in distress. We have discussed with locals residing on both sides of the Grand Road and sought their cooperation. Security survey has been completed at 70 small lanes and by-lanes, connecting the Grand Road. Police personnel will be deployed at those points to prevent any gathering.
You held a meeting with local hoteliers...
Hoteliers have been requested not to accept bookings from tourists during Rath Yatra. Around 41 hotels are located on both sides of the Grand Road. The hoteliers have assured us full cooperation.
What steps are being taken to ensure that normal policing and functioning of police stations are not affected during Rath Yatra?
We will ensure that complainants do not face any hardship while reaching police stations during the promulgation of prohibitory orders. Patrolling vans will be on roads. People can dial 100 for any assistance.
For the first time, police personnel will be prevented from pulling the chariots...
A decision was recently taken in Chhatisa Nijog (a confederation of different associations of servitors) of the temple to allow only servitors to pull the chariots. We have no issues with the decision.