India on high alert for Ram Navami with over 50,000 police, drones deployed nationwide

Security has been heightened across several Indian states ahead of Ram Navami, with thousands of police personnel deployed and advanced surveillance technologies put in place. The move comes in the wake of recent communal incidents, including violence in Nagpur on March 17. Police forces have been directed to monitor sensitive zones using drones and CCTV cameras, and peace committee meetings are being held across states to involve local religious and political leaders in maintaining law and order.

In Uttar Pradesh’s Ayodhya, a key location for the celebrations, authorities have reinforced security arrangements. Systems for traffic control, firefighting, drones, and CCTV surveillance have been implemented. Director General of Police Prashant Kumar has instructed local police to identify sensitive areas and collaborate with religious leaders. Additional precautions are in place at railway stations and bus terminals due to the expected influx of devotees.

Mumbai has deployed over 13,500 police personnel, including 11,000 constables, 2,500 officers, and 51 assistant commissioners. Nine platoons from the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) along with specialist units have been stationed across the city. Areas such as Malvani and Malad will be under aerial surveillance through drones. The aim is to maintain order during large processions and gatherings planned for the occasion.

In Kolkata, police have strengthened vigilance for over 50 rallies, including five major processions scheduled for Sunday. Police Commissioner Manoj Verma visited key locations and chaired meetings with senior officers to review preparations. The deployment is set to continue until April 7, with an additional 5,000 police personnel likely to be posted throughout the city. Routes for the processions have been mapped, and security has been scaled accordingly.

Odisha has increased security in sensitive districts including Sambalpur, Cuttack, Balasore, and Bhadrak. In Sambalpur, where communal clashes occurred in 2023, more than 15 platoons of police, along with BSF and CRPF personnel, have been deployed. Surveillance through over 100 CCTV cameras and drones is ongoing. In Cuttack, 25 platoons have been stationed to manage processions. Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, Chief Minister Hemant Soren has prohibited bike rallies during Ram Navami, citing them as a security challenge. He stated, “Special focus should be on the identified sensitive zones.” Enhanced surveillance and monitoring of social media platforms are being conducted in districts like Ranchi and Jamshedpur.