Delhi Police have mobilised a 10,000‑strong security force, deployed an extensive CCTV network and integrated facial‑recognition technology for the 77th Republic Day, while for the first time featuring a wanted terrorist’s photo on alert posters.
Background / Context
India’s Republic Day, celebrated on 26th January, is a national event that draws millions of citizens, dignitaries and foreign guests to the ceremonial parade on Kartavya Path. In recent years, the threat landscape has evolved, with intelligence agencies reporting an uptick in terror‑related plots targeting high‑profile gatherings. The Delhi Police, in coordination with the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and the National Security Guard (NSG), have therefore adopted a multi‑layered, technology‑driven security blueprint for this year’s celebrations.
For the first time, the police alert posters distributed across the city prominently display a photograph of Mohammed Rehan, a Delhi‑based member of Al‑Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS). The inclusion of the image signals a heightened focus on pre‑emptive identification of known threats and serves as a visual reminder to the public about the seriousness of the security measures.
Key Developments
According to Additional Commissioner of Police, New Delhi District, Devesh Kumar Mahala, the security plan comprises the following core elements:
- Deployment of 10,000 police personnel across the New Delhi district, with nine on‑ground briefings already conducted.
- Extensive CCTV coverage – nearly 1,000 high‑resolution cameras installed along Kartavya Path, integrated with an Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Facial‑Recognition System (FRS) that flags individuals with criminal records.
- Anti‑drone units positioned at strategic points to counter aerial threats.
- Sniper teams stationed on high‑rise buildings to provide a rapid response capability.
- Three‑layer pedestrian screening using Door‑Frame Metal Detectors (DFMDs) and soft‑check zones at four key checkpoints.
- Vehicle checks at inner, middle and outer cordons, with dedicated pickets for border and district security.
- Intensive verification drive of hotels, guest houses, tenants and domestic helpers in the district to pre‑screen potential risks.
- Public information campaign – detailed route maps, parking instructions and enclosure details posted on the Ministry of Defence and Delhi Police websites, supplemented by DMRC announcements at metro stations.
In addition, the seating areas for the parade have been renamed after major Indian rivers – Beas, Brahmaputra, Chambal, Chenab, Gandak, Ganga, Ghaghra, Godavari, Indus, Jhelum, Kaveri, Kosi, Krishna, Mahanadi, Narmada, Pennar, Periyar, Ravi, Son, Sutlej, Teesta, Vaigai and Yamuna – a symbolic gesture aimed at fostering a sense of national unity while also aiding crowd management.
Impact Analysis
For students and young professionals who may be attending the event as part of a university delegation or as guests, the heightened security translates into several practical implications:
- Early arrival – With multiple checkpoints and a three‑layer screening process, visitors are advised to reach the venue at least 90 minutes before the parade starts.
- Restricted items – Bags, briefcases, power banks, water bottles, weapons, sharp objects, inflammable substances, umbrellas, perfumes and toy weapons are strictly prohibited inside the enclosures.
- Digital passes – Special invited guests can avail free metro travel by presenting a digital pass; failure to comply may result in denial of entry.
- Route compliance – Deviating from the designated channels can lead to delays or security checks, potentially causing missed segments of the parade.
- Reporting suspicious activity – Citizens are urged to call 112 or approach the nearest police officer if they notice any unusual behaviour.
These measures, while adding a layer of inconvenience, are designed to safeguard the lives of millions and preserve the sanctity of the national celebration.
Expert Insights / Tips
Security analyst Dr. Ananya Gupta, who has studied crowd dynamics for over a decade, advises:
“The integration of facial‑recognition technology is a game‑changer. It allows for real‑time identification of known threats without slowing down the flow of people. However, it also raises privacy concerns, so it’s crucial that the data is stored securely and used only for the intended purpose.”
For students planning to attend, here are some practical tips:
- Check the Ministry of Defence website for the latest route maps and enclosure details.
- Download the Delhi Police app to receive real‑time alerts about any changes in security protocols.
- Carry only essential items and keep them in a clear, resealable bag for quick inspection.
- Use the DMRC’s “Metro for Republic Day” service to avoid traffic congestion.
- Stay informed about the seating area assigned to your group; the river‑named sections are listed on the official event page.
Additionally, the police have set up help desks at key locations along Kartavya Path. These desks can assist with directions, provide information on prohibited items, and answer any queries about the screening process.
Looking Ahead
While the 77th Republic Day will unfold under a robust security umbrella, the lessons learned will inform future national events. The use of AI‑driven facial‑recognition and drone surveillance is expected to become standard practice for large gatherings, including the upcoming Independence Day celebrations and international summits hosted in India.
Moreover, the inclusion of a terrorist’s photo on public posters marks a shift towards greater transparency in security communications. Authorities anticipate that this approach will deter potential attackers and encourage the public to remain vigilant.
In the long term, the Delhi Police plan to refine the technology stack, ensuring that privacy safeguards are strengthened while maintaining operational efficacy. The experience gained this year will also contribute to the development of a national framework for crowd safety, potentially influencing policy at the central level.
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