THE MONDAY Q&A
The affluent don’t break laws when abroad, says police chief …..SANJEEV DAYAL
Mumbai Police Commissioner Sanjeev Dayal has a lot on his plate these days. From maintaining peace and security during the chaotic festive season ahead to handling the underworld, he speaks to Sagnik Chowdhury on how the police plan to handle the challenges facing them.
The coming weekend sees Eid, Ganesh Chaturthi as well as the arrival of the Commonwealth Games Queen’s Baton Relay. How well prepared are the police?
At the moment we don’t know if Eid falls on September 10 or September 11. If it falls on September 11, it coincides with Ganesh Chaturthi. All possible preparations are being made, and adequate manpower has been earmarked. Internal discussions have been held, and we have identified places that need to be especially watched. We have also requisitioned additional forces from outside.
We have always advised Ganesh Mandals to install CCTV cameras, and many do have them. Lalbaugcha Raja has an elaborate network, and some more have got them installed with the help of private companies. The footage will be monitored by our men from control rooms at the sites.
Are there any specific terror alerts?
Ganesh Chaturthi is a huge occasion and people gather in large numbers.
There is always a chance that people will look to strike at such a time. There are always terror alerts during this period, and this year too the Centre has sent us alerts. We will make all possible arrangements to see that people enjoy the festival joyfully and peacefully.
There is always a chance that people will look to strike at such a time. There are always terror alerts during this period, and this year too the Centre has sent us alerts. We will make all possible arrangements to see that people enjoy the festival joyfully and peacefully.
The police had sought a change in the date of the relay in the city as it could possibly clash with Eid. What is the current status, and how will you be able to arrange a free and secure stretch of road?
As it stands now, the Government of India has informed us that the baton will arrive in Mumbai on September 10, and stay with us till September 12. Since people will be out to celebrate Eid, their religious sentiments will be taken into consideration while making arrangements. The relay will have to take place in areas less likely to be congested. The Commonwealth Games Organising Committee has not specified a definite distance for the relay; it has been left to the local organising committee to decide.