Devanjana Mukherjee, Khabri Media
It is crucial for both the government and religious leaders to work in tandem to ensure that security measures do not compromise the sanctity and openness of religious institutions.
Pic: Social Media
In the wake of the devastating blast at a convention center in Kerala, the security apparatus around churches in Delhi has been significantly bolstered. The incident in Kerala sent shockwaves throughout the country and prompted authorities to take proactive steps to ensure the safety of religious institutions and their congregations.
The Kerala convention center blast, which occurred during a religious gathering, highlighted the vulnerabilities faced by religious institutions across the nation. As a result, the Delhi Police and other security agencies have initiated a comprehensive review of security measures around churches in the national capital.
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Security was beefed-up around churches and at metro stations in the national capital in the wake of the Kerala convention centre blast on Sunday. Other areas include main markets, churches, metro stations, bus stands, railway stations, and other public places.
Steps have been taken to enhance security around Delhi churches is an increased police presence. Uniformed officers and plainclothes personnel have been deployed in and around churches during religious events and services. Churches are encouraged to maintain open lines of communication with local police and intelligence agencies to share any credible threats or information.
Officers are responsible for conducting thorough security checks, monitoring suspicious activities, and ensuring the safety of churchgoers. Their presence alone serves as a deterrent to potential threats. Teams have been informed to put barricades on the border area from Uttar Pradesh Side and Haryana side. Police in civil dress, riders and PCRs have been asked to stay on alert and not to ignore any information they receive.
Pic: Social Media
According to police officials, “We are already keeping strict vigil in overcrowded markets. Extra platoon deployment has already been done considering the festival season,” High-definition CCTV cameras are strategically placed in and around churches to provide real-time monitoring of unusual or suspicious behaviour.
Collaboration with intelligence agencies and sharing of information has increased as part of the new security measures. The Delhi Police have formed a dedicated task force for church security. This task force comprises highly trained officers who specialize in security assessments and threat mitigation. Training and awareness programs have been initiated for church staff and volunteers.
On Sunday, a blast ripped through a convention centre in Kerala’s Kalamassery, killing a woman and wounding 36 others. The blast occurred during the convention of the Jehovah’s Witnesses — a Christian religious group that originated in the United States of America in the 19th century.
