No security lapse, PM Modi's route was changed at last minute: Punjab CM

Tribune news Service

Chandigarh, January 5

Denying any security lapse or attempt to attack PM Narendra Modi, Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi today said it was wrong to give a political colour to the incident by linking a peaceful protest by farmers with threat to PM’s security.

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It was unfortunate that PM’s convoy was stuck on a flyover for nearly 20 minutes after some protesters (yet to be identified) suddenly blocked road leading to Ferozepur, he said during a press conference.

“Still, if anyone feels there is a security lapse, we are ready for any probe,” he said while rushing to add that the road on which the protesters were sitting was not on the route plan of the PM’s convoy.

The CM ducked questions over the state DGP giving road clearance, saying everything was planned in consultation with the PM’s security agencies. “He said he regretted that the PM had to return. We have full respect for the PM, but it was wrong to give a political colour to the incident. The farmers had been sitting on Delhi’s borders for a year, nothing happened. If there is any threat to the PM, I will be the first one to give my blood. A Punjabi will never attack any guest,” he said.

The plan of PM’s travel by road was shared at the last moment. “We were told that the PM would travel by a helicopter from Bathinda to Ferozepur. But all of sudden, the PM decided to travel by road,” he said.

The CM said after receiving a call from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, he personally intervened and successfully convinced the farmers to lift dharnas on roads leading to the venue of BJP rally. All roads leading to the rally venue were cleared last night. Some agitators, however, reached there and sat on the road. The PM’s convoy was stopped way before that spot.

“To lift any protest it takes at least 10-20 minutes. The PM was informed about it and also offered a different route, but he chose to leave,” Channi said.

“I did not go to receive the PM today as I was in close contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19,” he said.

Security protocol

3-tier security for PM

• The SPG, CAPFs and local police provide three-tier security
• SPG responsible for PM’s security 24x7; sharpshooters at official residence and the PM’s office
• SPG personnel carry assault rifles, automatic guns
• If PM on road trip, route sanitised, closed 10 min in advance
• During this period, two local police patrol vehicles blow siren

Two dummy cars

• PM’s convoy comprises 2 bullet-proof BMW 7 series, six BMW X5, a Mercedes Benz ambulance and a dozen other vehicles
• To dodge a possible attacker, two dummy cars in cavalcade, besides jammer vehicles
• 2 routes for PM’s movement, SPG picks one at last minute

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