Suhail Bhat
SRINAGAR, June 26: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V.K. Birdhi, today said the Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with other security forces, have made elaborate and advanced security arrangements for the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, including the deployment of Facial Recognition Systems (FRS), multi-layered security grids and anti-drone measures.
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Speaking to Excelsior in an exclusive interview, Birdhi said that this year’s Yatra-set to begin from 3rd July-will see a stronger and more technology-driven security setup compared to previous years. “We have made elaborate security arrangements in coordination with all security agencies,” he added.
The IGP said that in addition to last year’s arrangements, this year they have introduced in-depth security deployments and installed FRS technology. “This will help us maintain a database of unwanted elements and law violators. If such individuals are detected, alerts will be generated and arrests will be made promptly,” he said.
Birdhi said security forces have conducted full-scale security drills and rehearsals at multiple locations to ensure that all agencies are prepared to respond to any emergencies or contingencies. “These drills are conducted jointly with all concerned forces to ensure seamless coordination and clear task allocation during any eventuality,” he said.
On drone threats, Birdhi said strict measures have been implemented under a no-flying zone directive. “Instructions have been received from higher authorities. The entire Yatra route has been declared a no-fly zone, and forces on the ground have been given clear orders to implement it strictly. Do’s and Don’ts will be communicated to pilgrims at camps and halting stations,” he said.
The IGP said that search operations and sanitization drives have been conducted in forest areas and high-altitude dhokas to prevent any potential threats. “Security forces are conscious of the environment and local populations. As part of crowd-policing, our personnel establish contact with locals and ensure there are no suspicious elements in the region,” he said.
When asked about the challenges of this year’s Yatra, he acknowledged the risks but expressed confidence. “There are challenges, but we have factored them in. Security briefings, debriefings, and rehearsals have been carried out thoroughly. We are well-prepared to handle the situation,” he said.
On Muharram, which will be observed during the same time, Birdhi said detailed plans are in place to ensure peaceful processions. “District SPs are in constant touch with the respective Muharram committees. We are working closely with them to finalize routes, regulate traffic and avoid inconvenience to both participants and the general public,” he said.
The IGP called for public cooperation, describing it as vital to the peaceful conduct of both the Yatra and Muharram events.
On the security scenario in Kashmir, Birdhi said, “Operations by security forces are ongoing across the valley. Each agency has its strategy, and efforts are being made to maintain peace and security throughout the region.”
Responding to reports of recent infiltration amid Operation Sindoor, the IGP refrained from revealing sensitive details. “It is not appropriate to publicly share classified intelligence. But whenever we receive credible inputs, we activate our response and communication mechanisms. Operations are launched as per protocol,” he said.
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