Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Security arrangements across Chandigarh have been strengthened following the announcement by the Qaumi Insaaf Morcha to march towards the Punjab Governor’s House on Independence Day. With the possibility of a large gathering, police have increased deployment at key entry points and along routes leading towards the Governor’s residence.
The issue has also come before the Punjab and Haryana High Court, where concerns were raised over the possible impact of the proposed protest on public movement and law and order. The court made it clear that the right to peaceful demonstration cannot be used as a means to create disorder or cause damage to public property.
Police step up checking at Chandigarh borders
Authorities have intensified checking of vehicles entering Chandigarh from neighbouring areas. Additional personnel have been stationed at important junctions and sensitive locations, while routes that could be used by protesters to reach the Governor’s House are being monitored closely.
The security exercise is aimed at preventing any sudden buildup of crowds in the city, particularly around areas considered sensitive during the Independence Day celebrations.
High Court stresses balance between protest and public order
The matter came before a bench headed by Acting Chief Justice Ashwani Mishra and Justice Rohit Kapoor after a public interest litigation was filed by Vivek Singla.
The petition raised concerns that a sizeable gathering by Morcha supporters could lead to traffic disruptions, affect emergency services and create a law-and-order challenge if protesters attempted to move towards the Governor’s House.
During the hearing, the court emphasized that citizens are entitled to express their views through peaceful protests. At the same time, the administration has a responsibility to ensure that such demonstrations do not result in violence, disruption or damage to public property.
Administration asked to submit security report
The High Court has directed the Chandigarh administration and the Punjab government to put adequate arrangements in place and ensure that public movement is not unnecessarily affected.
The authorities have also been asked to submit a status report outlining the steps taken to handle the proposed protest. The case will come up for further hearing on August 20.
Focus on Independence Day security
With Independence Day events being held across Chandigarh, officials are maintaining heightened vigilance. Police teams are monitoring movement from neighbouring Punjab and checking vehicles at selected entry points.
Officials have indicated that peaceful demonstrations will be dealt with in accordance with the law, while any attempt to disturb public order or damage government property will be prevented.
For now, the security focus remains concentrated around the Governor’s House and the major roads and entry routes that could see movement of protesters.
