Security tightened in Amritsar ahead of Bluestar anniversary

Security has been tightened in Amritsar ahead of the Bluestar anniversary, with authorities deploying more than 4,000 personnel and eleven paramilitary companies to ensure order during the commemorative events. The annual Akhand Path and a photo exhibition have begun at the Golden Temple complex, drawing devotees and visitors who gather to mark the occasion. The heightened presence of police and paramilitary forces is intended to prevent any disturbances and to facilitate a smooth flow of worshippers throughout the day. The Bluestar operation, launched by the Indian Army in June 1984, remains a sensitive chapter in Punjab’s history. The anniversary is observed each year to remember the military action that targeted the Golden Temple and the surrounding area. Given the historical weight of the event, officials have emphasized the need for robust security measures to safeguard public safety. Over 4,000 security personnel, including police officers and members of the paramilitary, have been stationed across the city and at the temple precincts. Eleven paramilitary companies have been added to reinforce the deployment, creating a layered security arrangement that covers entry points, interior courtyards and the surrounding streets. The combined force aims to monitor crowd movements, respond quickly to any incident and maintain a visible deterrent. The administration’s focus on security reflects the significance of the Bluestar anniversary as a major religious and cultural gathering. Large congregations at the Golden Temple attract thousands of visitors, and the administration has taken steps to coordinate with temple authorities to manage the influx. By increasing the number of personnel and establishing additional checkpoints, the authorities seek to balance accessibility with safety. The heightened security measures come as the city prepares for a series of religious gatherings that are expected to attract many devotees over the coming days. The administration has announced that the deployment will remain in place throughout the anniversary period, with additional personnel on standby to respond to any emergent situations. Traffic management plans have been put in place to ease movement around the temple complex, and barricades have been erected at key access points to control the flow of vehicles and pedestrians. The combined effort reflects a coordinated response by multiple agencies, including the municipal corporation, the state police force, and the central paramilitary units, all working to uphold public order. The Golden Temple, also known as Harmandir Sahib, is one of the most revered sites for Sikhs and attracts pilgrims from across the region and beyond. The Akhand Path, a continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib, begins early each morning and runs without interruption, symbolizing devotion and remembrance. The photo exhibition accompanying the anniversary presents visual narratives of the 1984 operation and its aftermath, offering a historical perspective that complements the spiritual observances. The overall atmosphere remains solemn yet hopeful. The administration has stated that the arrangements are designed to protect participants without restricting religious practice, ensuring that the anniversary can be observed peacefully. The heightened security measures come as the city prepares for a series of religious gatherings that are expected to attract many devotees over the coming days. The administration has announced that the deployment will remain in place throughout the anniversary period, with additional personnel on standby to respond to any emergent situations. Traffic management plans have been put in place to ease movement around the temple complex, and barricades have been erected at key access points to control the flow of vehicles and pedestrians. The combined effort reflects a coordinated response by multiple agencies, including the municipal corporation, the state police force, and the central paramilitary units, all working to uphold public order. The photo exhibition, which showcases images related to the events of 1984 and the subsequent history of the Golden Temple, adds a cultural dimension to the observance. It draws attention to the historical narrative and provides context for younger generations. The Akhand Path, a continuous recitation of the Guru Granth Sahib, runs throughout the day, underscoring the religious significance of the anniversary. Overall, the security arrangements in Amritsar underscore the administration’s commitment to public safety during a high‑profile commemoration. The deployment of extensive forces, combined with organized religious programming, aims to ensure that the anniversary proceeds peacefully while honoring the memory of the events that led to the Bluestar operation.

Source: Hindustan Times