Haryana DCs SPs directed to maintain strict vigilance following Pahalgam terror attack

Chandigarh, Apr 25 (PTI) Haryana Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi on Friday held a conference with the deputy commissioners (DCs) and superintendents of police (SPs), emphasising that upholding law and order remains a top priority, especially in the light of the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.
     At least 26 men, most of them tourists, were killed in cold blood when terrorists opened fire at them in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on Tuesday. The dead included a local and a Nepalese citizen.
     Rastogi reaffirmed the state government's commitment to maintaining peace, harmony and brotherhood across the state.
     Chairing a video conference with the DCs and SPs, he directed the district officials to keep a hawk's eye on anti-social elements and take prompt action against anyone attempting to disrupt public order or social unity.
     During the meeting, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Sumita Misra issued a series of instructions aimed at strengthening the security apparatus.
     She called upon the district administrations to intensify patrolling, enhance local intelligence-gathering mechanisms and maintain constant surveillance on potentially sensitive areas.
     Misra particularly emphasised the importance of monitoring social media platforms.
     According to an official statement, she also instructed officials to take strict legal action against individuals spreading misinformation or attempting to vitiate the communal atmosphere online.
     "Any attempt to disturb social harmony will be dealt with a firm hand," she asserted.
     Misra also directed that regular law and order assessments be conducted and contingency plans be kept ready to respond swiftly to any emerging situation.
     Misra asked all district officials to ensure full security and support for Kashmiri students studying in universities and colleges across Haryana.
     She urged the district administrations to remain in close contact with educational institutions to address any concerns and provide a sense of safety and reassurance to the students.
     Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapur also addressed the meeting and instructed all district police heads to identify vulnerable areas and keep a close watch on them.
     He emphasised the need to reactivate peace committees at the district level to foster mutual understanding and maintain communal harmony.
     "These committees play a crucial role in promoting dialogue between communities and can act as a bridge to defuse tension during sensitive times," Kapur noted.
     Additional DGP, CID, Saurabh Singh; Secretary, Home Department, Geeta Bharti; and senior officers of various departments were present on the occasion.

(This story has not been edited by THE WEEK and is auto-generated from PTI)