Unforeseen Suspension of Seven Delhi Police Officers for Negligence During Red Fort Bomb Drill Exercise
Delhi Police Suspend Seven Officials After Dummy Bomb Goes Undetected at Red Fort Security Drill
A security breach occurred during a clandestine security drill by the Delhi Police's high-profile Special Cell at the Red Fort, ahead of the 79th Independence Day celebrations. The incident, which involved a dummy bomb going undetected, has led to the suspension of seven Delhi Police officials, including constables and head constables[1][2][3][5].
To enhance security at the Red Fort, several measures have been taken or planned. Daily security drills are conducted by the Delhi Police to constantly assess and strengthen security arrangements[1][2][5]. A two-layered ring security system has been formed, overseen by senior officers such as Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCP)[5]. Deployment of snipers, Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) commandos, and drones as part of layered security is also part of the plan[5].
The area around Red Fort has been declared a high-security zone with increased vigilance, including thorough checking of vehicles entering Delhi from other states[1][3]. A ban on sub-conventional aerial platforms (like drones) has been enforced from August 2 to August 16 to curb aerial threats[3]. Five varieties of surveillance cameras, including headcount cameras, are being deployed at the Red Fort for the first time this year[5]. The security strategy for the Red Fort also includes high-end vehicle scanning systems.
Following the mock drill failure, a complete review of security protocols is underway to implement improved and revised plans[5]. The Red Fort remains among the most sensitive spots in the capital and is under tightened security in the lead-up to Independence Day. The 79th Independence Day celebrations are scheduled to take place on August 15.
The Delhi Police have vowed to be more vigilant in the next few days, with more staff and intelligence resources to guard the monument[5]. Additionally, the authorities are considering potential disciplinary action beyond suspensions to ensure accountability and heighten alertness among personnel managing security for this critical national event[3][5].
The episode has raised serious questions about readiness, particularly when India's highest constitutional functionary is to address the nation from the Red Fort. The security personnel on duty were not able to detect or intercept the dummy bomb, which was placed within the complex[1][3]. The increased surveillance includes electronic surveillance systems, and the exercise involved Special Cell officials penetrating the Red Fort complex in civilian clothes and carrying a dummy explosive device[1][2][4].
The Red Fort, a historic monument, is under constant surveillance with cameras monitoring crowd intensity and detecting suspicious movement[1][4]. These measures are in place to safeguard the Prime Minister's Independence Day address and the national celebration activities at the historic Red Fort.
[1] [https://www.ndtv.com/delhi-news/dummy-bomb-exercise-at-red-fort-seven-delhi-police-officials-suspended-2606870] [2] [https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/delhi-police-suspends-seven-officials-for-failing-to-spot-dummy-bomb-during-security-drill-at-red-fort/story-1g68qdVb93vJbkqf2ZKaXN.html] [3] [https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/delhi-police-suspend-seven-officials-for-failing-to-spot-dummy-bomb-during-security-drill-at-red-fort/article36378038.ece] [4] [https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/dummy-bomb-exercise-at-red-fort-seven-delhi-police-officials-suspended-122041801097_1.html] [5] [https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/delhi-police-suspends-seven-officials-for-failing-to-spot-dummy-bomb-during-security-drill-at-red-fort-1875801-2022-04-18]
- In light of the security breach at the Red Fort, there might be increased coverage of general-news and crime-and-justice involving the Delhi Police, including discussions on the disciplinary actions taken and potential improvements in security protocols.
- As the Independence Day celebrations approach, discussions on politics in newspapers and news channels might focus on the recent suspension of Delhi Police officials following the failure of a security drill at the Red Fort and the need for more vigilance and accountability in crime-and-justice matters related to national security.
