Himachal police issue 11-point dos-don’ts to enhance security for Navratras

Sunil Chadha
With the onset of Navratras from Monday (September 22, 2025), the Himachal Pradesh police department has made comprehensive preparations to maintain law and order and ensure public safety.

Himachal Pradesh Director General of Police Ashok Tewari has directed all District SPs and Range IGPs/DIGs to exercise special caution and take effective measures to ensure public safety during the festivities. Himachal police chief Ashok Tewari has issued the following 11-point guideline book charting the dos and don’ts for subordinate staff.

1. SPs will personally brief and debrief their subordinate officers and personnel.
2. Range IGPs/DIGs will monitor and analyse the situation daily, including the number of visitors, traffic conditions, morale and welfare of police personnel.
3. Police will remain vigilant and proactive in monitoring potential hotspots and gathering intelligence to prevent public safety incidents.
4. Strategies will be implemented to assess crowd size, density and potential risks, and to manage crowd flow using barricades and controlled access points.
5. Emergency response plans will be developed and regularly updated, including clear evacuation procedures, emergency assembly points and medical support services.
6. Agencies and units will share intelligence to stay informed about potential security threats.
7. Social media platforms will be closely monitored to identify and address misinformation or rumours that could lead to public safety incidents.
8. Past incidents will be reviewed and analysed to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective measures.
9. Sufficient police deployment and traffic management arrangements will be ensured.
10. Temple authorities and local administration will be coordinated with to ensure smooth conduct of events.
11. Emergency contact numbers and contingency plans will be readily available.

IPS officer Ashok Tewari emphasised that the police’s proactive approach and effective planning will be crucial in ensuring public safety and maintaining law and order during the festive season.