Technology being used to keep a tab on programmes at Ramlila Ground

New Delhi: Delhi's iconic Ramlila ground witnessed over 60 major programmes since 2017. The different types of protests and rallies are dealt with comprehensive foolproof plans. Apart from heavy deployment of forces, city police used technology in law and order arrangements.

The Delhi Police data claimed that in 2017 as many as 32 law and order arrangements made in the ground. In 2018, the law enforcement agency witnessed 32 programmes including Vishwa Hindu Parishad's (VHP) rally which held in December. "Apart from major, there were also small programmes with less gathering. The local police station staff handled those demonstrations," a police officer said.

When asked whether arrangements affect investigation in important criminal cases, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Central) Mandeep Singh Randhawa said," We make sure that investigating team give their full focus in solving the crime. Only in some arrangements, all staff deployed." The district modified the anti-riot vehicle 'Vajra Vahan' as a mobile police control room which is being used during law and order arrangements. "Vajra Vahan consists of high-resolution CCTV cameras to keep a tab on the situation," said DCP ( Central) Mandeep Singh Randhawa.

"Body-worn cameras can be used soon as an enforcement tool during law and order situations," said police officer. Revealing much about the action plan before any sensitive programme, a police official told this newspaper that first they prepare blueprint according to the gathering and then the mapping of the ground."The meeting is done with the organiser to get details about the programme," said police officer. In many cases, permission to protest was not granted and if the organiser carried out the programme, the local police station makes sure that no violence takes place.

In Ramlila ground, there are three types of gathering –400 to 500 people, approx 5,000 persons and more than 5,000. "We deploy police force according to the gathering and sensitive programmes where VVIPs are present or religious rallies going on, in that case, deployment is increased on the ground," the officer added. DCP Central further stated that the motivation of the staff is very important during deployment.

"Before any programme, proper training is given to police personnel and all high rise buildings are dominated by the police team," said DCP.