Bhubaneswar: Odisha Police has demonstrated its exceptional capabilities in ensuring the safety and security of high-profile events in the state. Recently, Odisha played host to three major events: the DG and IGP Conference-2024, the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, and the Utkarsh Odisha Conclave.
As these events concluded, Odisha Police received widespread acclaim from VVIPs and delegates for ensuring the successful completion of recent high-profile events in the state.
Apart from VVIPs and delegates, common people also appreciated the efforts of Odisha Police DGP YB Khurania and his team, who worked relentlessly under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to provide top-notch security arrangements, making the events a resounding success.
Hosting these major events with high-profile delegates like Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and the nation’s top cops was a proud moment for Odisha, but it also posed a significant challenge for Odisha Police. The threat from Khalistani separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun during the DG meeting had added to the complexity, making it crucial for the police to ensure the seamless execution of the events. Under the able leadership of Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, the Odisha police implemented comprehensive security measures to safeguard the DG meet. The police also provided blanket security to VVIPs, dignitaries, and industrialists attending the other two events.
In view of the security threat from Khalistani separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, Odisha Police implemented robust and unprecedented security measures, deploying 108 platoons of forces, including 72 platoons of state police and 36 platoons of central forces ahead of the conference.
The threat from Khalistani outfit member Gurpatwant Singh Pannun prompted Odisha Police to re-evaluate and beef up security arrangements for the DG meet. In a video message, Pannun challenged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit and incited his supporters to disrupt the conference, making a provocative statement that ‘Bhubaneswar is not a city of temples, rather a city of terror.
The city was placed on high alert with intensive checks at Governor House, airports, bus stands, railway stations, and hotels. Several no-fly zones were declared in key areas of the city, including the airport, Lok Seva Bhavan, State Guest House, IPS Mess at Maitri Vihar, and roads connecting these locations. Special Forces, including Odisha’s Anti-Terror Force, and Bomb Squad, were on high alert to counter any potential threats. The Odisha Police left no stone unturned, deploying a massive security apparatus to ensure the smooth conduct of the event.
Security measures were further heightened for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas event, with 83 platoons of police force, including 40 from outside the state, being deployed. Over 500 officers, 12 companies of the Central Armed Police Force, and personnel from special intelligence and anti-terror units were also part of the security arrangements.
For the Utkarsh Odisha Conclave and Make in Odisha Exhibition, 60 platoons of police and over 400 officers of various ranks were deployed. Additional police personnel were also mobilized to ensure the smooth conduct of the events.
The Odisha Police has earned high praise from delegates attending the recently concluded Utkarsh Odisha Conclave and the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas. The delegates were impressed by the police’s exceptional professionalism, dedication to duty, and top-notch security arrangements. They appreciated the robust and effective security measures put in place, which ensured their safety and security throughout the events.
The delegates also praised the Odisha Police for their courteous and helpful demeanour, always available to assist with any queries or concerns. The delegates also expressed their gratitude for the exceptional service provided by the Odisha Police, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to guarantee the safety and security of all participants. Their efforts have earned the appreciation of the people of Odisha and the nation at large.
