Munish Sood
MANDI: In the wake of the recent unrest in Janjheli during Himachal Pradesh minister Jagat Singh Negi’s visit when he came under shoe and black flag attack, Mandi Superintendent of Police Sakshi Verma has clarified that the police had prior intelligence regarding a possible disturbance and were fully prepared to handle the situation.
Speaking exclusively to The Newz Radar, SP Sakshi Verma defended the department’s actions and revealed key details about the security arrangements made ahead of the incident.
Intelligence inputs prompted early action
“We were aware of potential unrest in Janjheli through our intelligence wing,” said SP Verma. “Based on these inputs, we took pre-emptive steps, including the deployment of a quick reaction team (QRT), a measure that is not taken routinely.”
She further explained that over 50 police personnel including QRT were strategically deployed in the area. “This was a decision guided by actionable intelligence” she said.
SP says situation could have escalated
According to SP Sakshi Verma, what transpired that day was not good but could have been far worse. “Had we not made the necessary preparations, the incident could have turned into a serious law and order crisis,” she stated.
Underlining the importance of a strong field presence, SP Sakshi Verma noted that not just one, but two Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) were deployed at the location. “Normally, one DSP would suffice in such a scenario, but based on our assessment, we decided to strengthen police presence on the ground. That was a calculated and necessary decision,” she emphasised.
Sudden crowd surge complicated situation
Recounting the day of the incident, SP Sakshi Verma said, “Everything was under control until more than 150 persons suddenly gathered and attempted to block the road. The police acted swiftly and efficiently to manage the crowd and ensure the safe passage of the minister’s convoy.”
Commenting on the protesters’ act of hurling shoes and slippers at the convoy, the SP remarked, “Such actions were impulsive and unprecedented”.
“Our top priority was to escort the minister out safely and to prevent any major incident from occurring. That objective was fully achieved,” she asserted. SP Verma concluded by affirming that the police handled the situation with maturity and efficiency, and that further action in connection with the incident is underway.
