Gurugram Police braces up for Jat agitation on Jan 29

The Gurugram Police on Sunday conducted a mock drill to deal with the Jat protests that are expected across Haryana on January 29.

There was widespread violence and damage to properties when the Jat community in Haryana had their protests in February 2016, demanding reservations under the OBC category.

Most of the cases were reported from Rohtak and Sonepat. With Gurugram possessing a sizeable Jat population, the Gurugram Police has started its preparations well in advance to deal with the law and order challenges that might affect the city.

The mock drill conducted by the Gurugram Police was held under the supervision of the Commissioner of Gurugram Police Sandeep Khirwar along with other senior police officials of Gurugram.

In order to deal with the protests, Rapid Action Force will be deployed.

A team of women police officers has been formed to deal with women protestors.

In the mock drill, water canon vehicles and other police vehicles were also used to ensure their proper functioning during the crisis.

Various police stations in the city have also been directed to keep forces reserved to meet the crisis of manpower during the agitation. The Gurugram Police has also cancelled the leaves of its officials so that it has enough manpower to deal with the protestors.

"While there was not much of impact specially in Gurugram, the police cannot take chances. Preparations are being made to ensure that the police are able to deal with the crisis effectively," said a senior police official.

"As this is an emotional issue, some violent incidents may take place. We have been directed to be tough with those who try to disrupt the law and order in the city. We have also got in touch with certain Jat community leaders to maintain restraint," added the official.