Police, BSF step up security in Amritsar ahead of festive season

With the festive season in full swing and persistent cross-border threats, security has been significantly tightened across Amritsar. The city remains on high alert following repeated recoveries of weapons and narcotics smuggled from Pakistan.

Police Commissioner Gurpreet Singh Bhullar said that all officials have been directed to remain on the ground and personally supervise the security arrangements.

“Special nakas have been set up at all entry and exit points and checking of vehicles and suspicious individuals has been intensified,” he said. Authorities are also closely monitoring history-sheeters and recently released criminals to prevent any potential disruption during the festivities.

Over 4,000 police personnel have been deployed throughout the city, supported by a company of the Border Security Force (BSF). All police leaves have been cancelled and personnel instructed to report back to duty immediately.

The enhanced security measures follow a high-level review meeting chaired by Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav in Amritsar last week. He had ordered that all border districts, including Amritsar, be placed on maximum alert to counter smuggling and potential terror threats during the festive period.

Meanwhile, on Monday, the Border Security Force recovered two AK-47 rifles, a pistol and live ammunition along the International Border, successfully thwarting another attempt to push arms into Indian territory. In recent weeks, several drone-borne consignments carrying weapons and heroin have been intercepted in the Amritsar and Tarn Taran sectors, keeping security forces on high alert.

Additional security layers have been established at key locations and religious sites, including the Golden Temple, Durgiana temple, the railway station, the bus stand and Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport.

The police have urged citizens to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious individuals or unattended items, especially in crowded areas, to help ensure peaceful celebrations during the festive season.