Gujarat Police secure 919 sensitive sites ahead of Muharram processions
Synopsis
Gujarat Police have locked down 919 sensitive sites ahead of Muharram, deploying SRPF platoons, drones, body-worn cameras, and social media monitoring units — all reviewed personally by DGP G. S. Malik in a state-wide video conference. The scale of the operation signals how seriously authorities are treating communal risk management this festival season.
Key Takeaways
Gujarat Police have secured 919 identified sensitive locations across the state ahead of Muharram processions.
Malik chaired a state-wide video conference at Police Bhavan on Tuesday to review security arrangements.
Risk assessments are being conducted in localities where Muharram-related incidents occurred over the past five years .
Teams of 8 to 10 personnel are conducting intensive foot patrols in sensitive pockets, backed by SRPF companies and platoons.
Drones , CCTV systems , and body-worn cameras have been deployed for real-time surveillance of procession routes.
Continuous social media monitoring has been ordered to counter rumours and content that could disturb communal harmony.
Gujarat Police have stepped up security arrangements across 919 identified sensitive locations statewide ahead of Muharram processions, with authorities ordering heightened surveillance, risk assessments, and coordinated deployment to ensure communal peace during the festival period.
High-Level Review at Police Bhavan
A state-wide video conference was convened on Tuesday from Police Bhavan under the chairmanship of Director General of Police (DGP) G. S. Malik to review law and order arrangements ahead of Muharram processions and Tazia routes. The meeting was attended by all Police Commissioners, Range Heads, and District Superintendents of Police through virtual mode.
Officials were directed to focus vigilance specifically on areas flagged for special monitoring during Tazia processions. Police units have also been instructed to conduct risk assessments in localities where incidents were reported during Muharram over the past five years, with the aim of reinforcing preventive policing ahead of time.
Deployment and Ground Presence
The DGP directed all city, district, range, and unit heads to prepare comprehensive security deployment plans backed by maximum technological support. Additional SRPF companies and platoons have been deployed across the state to bolster ground-level presence.
Teams of 8 to 10 police personnel have been assigned for intensive foot patrolling in sensitive pockets. Field personnel are being briefed in advance on operational responsibilities, area-specific sensitivities, and emergency response protocols before taking up positions. Coordinated bandobast arrangements have been put in place along procession routes and public gathering points to enable real-time monitoring and rapid response.
Technology at the Forefront
Technological surveillance has been significantly expanded for the occasion. Drones, CCTV systems, and body-worn cameras are being deployed to monitor large gatherings and procession routes. Police personnel on duty have been specifically instructed to wear body-worn cameras to ensure accountability and real-time recording of events.
Notably, continuous monitoring of social media platforms has also been ordered to identify and take legal action against individuals or groups attempting to spread rumours, misinformation, or content that could disturb communal harmony. This is increasingly standard practice ahead of major religious events in Gujarat, reflecting the state's experience managing large-scale processions in urban centres.
Traffic and Crowd Management
Traffic regulation and crowd management plans have been put in place to minimise disruption to public movement during processions. Authorities have emphasised that visible policing in sensitive areas is intended to enhance public confidence and deter potential disruptions.
The overall security framework, officials said, is designed to maintain law and order across sensitive and high-footfall areas during Muharram, with coordinated efforts between field units and central control mechanisms. All arrangements are expected to remain in force through the duration of the festival.
Point of View
SRPF deployment, drone surveillance, and social media monitoring — reflects a state that has institutionalised festival-time risk management after years of communal tension. What stands out this year is the explicit five-year historical audit of incident-prone localities, suggesting a shift from reactive policing to data-informed prevention. The body-worn camera mandate for all deployed personnel is also significant: it signals accountability as much as deterrence. The real measure of success, however, will not be the number of personnel deployed but whether the intelligence-led approach actually prevents friction at the ground level — something no press briefing can guarantee.
NationPress
24 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many sensitive locations has Gujarat Police identified for Muharram security?
Gujarat Police have identified 919 sensitive locations across the state for heightened security during Muharram. These sites have been flagged for intensified surveillance, foot patrolling, and coordinated deployment.
Who chaired the Muharram security review meeting in Gujarat?
Director General of Police (DGP) G. S. Malik chaired the state-wide video conference held at Police Bhavan on Tuesday. The meeting was attended by all Police Commissioners, Range Heads, and District Superintendents of Police.
What technology is being used to monitor Muharram processions in Gujarat?
Authorities have deployed drones , CCTV systems , and body-worn cameras to monitor procession routes and large gatherings. Social media platforms are also being continuously monitored to counter misinformation and rumour-mongering.
Why are risk assessments being conducted in specific localities?
Police units have been directed to assess localities where incidents were reported during Muharram over the past five years . The objective is to strengthen preventive policing and address area-specific sensitivities before the festival.
What additional forces have been deployed for Muharram in Gujarat?
Additional SRPF (State Reserve Police Force) companies and platoons have been deployed statewide. Teams of 8 to 10 police personnel are conducting intensive foot patrols in sensitive pockets, supported by bandobast arrangements along procession routes.
