Not just for Putin's visit: Why Delhi's on high alert
What's the story
Delhi has been put on high alert ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin's two-day visit starting Thursday. A multi-layered security grid has been activated to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitary. Over 5,000 police personnel will be deployed across the city to monitor every movement during his visit. Top officers from Delhi Police are supervising route security, traffic arrangements, and sanitization around places likely to be included in the visit schedule.
Enhanced security
Security measures include anti-drone systems and SWAT teams
"All routes mapped for VVIP movement have been secured in advance," an official said. The security measures also include SWAT teams, anti-terror units, sniper deployment, quick-reaction squads, and technical surveillance through high-definition CCTV cameras around all possible visit zones. The heightened security alert comes after a major security breach on November 10, when an explosive-laden vehicle passed through central Delhi's high-security zones before reaching the Red Fort area, where it detonated, killing 15 people.
Upcoming events
Security measures intensified ahead of December anniversaries
The security alert has been further heightened for other specific periods: the Babri Masjid demolition anniversary on December 6 and the Parliament attack anniversary on December 13. On top of it, a direct threat has been received from the banned outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun announced plans to "celebrate Dec 13 as 'Kashmir-Khalistan freedom day,'" calling for a strike on the Indian Parliament and urging certain parliamentarians to "internationalize the liberation of Punjab from India."
Public impact
Security measures to minimize public disruption
Speaking to PTI, senior police officers said that from Putin's arrival to his departure, every movement will be tracked by multiple security units. "Minute-to-minute coordination is underway, and all concerned agencies have been instructed to maintain maximum vigilance throughout," the officer told PTI. Authorities have also warned of major traffic disruptions with restrictions and diversions in place on Thursday and Friday.