Police deploy 2,500 personnel to crack down on illegal Holi parties

Nagpur: The city police ramped up security measures to ensure safe and responsible Holi celebrations. To curb unauthorised events, drunken driving, and potential law violations, the city police deployed approximately 2,500 personnel and will set up around 70 checkpoints at key locations.CP Ravinder Singal stressed zero tolerance for any form of illegality, urging residents to enjoy the festival of colours in a safe, family-friendly manner.
JtCP Navinchandra Reddy stated the security blueprint and preparations were underway, especially sending the goons outstation from city limits for a few days. "Police would be on toes from the eve of Holi to midnight on the day of celebration. We will be strictly enforcing law," he said.Zonal DCP Niketan Kadam issued a stern warning to party-goers and organisers alike. "We urge citizens not to fall for promoters advertising lavish, unregulated Holi bashes that charge entry fee or promise unrestricted fun. Such events frequently bypass mandatory permissions, leading to liquor law breaches, crowding, and grave safety risks," Kadam stated.He emphasised that police were conducting continuous surveillance and prepared to conduct immediate raids on venues hosting ticketed or commercial Holi celebrations without proper approvals.In a significant tech-driven initiative, the cyber police identified around 15 unauthorised Holi party bashes advertised or promoted online across Nagpur.DCP cyber and traffic Lohit Matani stated details of these events were shared with the respective police stations for swift action, including verification of permissions and potential shutdowns if violations are confirmed. "Cyber teams are also on the lookout for hate speeches, communal slurs, and social media misuse," said Matani.Police appealed to the public to celebrate responsibly, steer clear of dubious organisers, and report any suspicious activities promptly through helplines or local stations. "This collaborative approach aims to ensure peaceful festivities while preventing mishaps," said Matani.Joint teams from traffic police and local stations will operate these points to deter impaired driving, a common concern during festival seasons.