Minister Nityanand Rai Discusses Pilgrim Safety and Security Measures in India
Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai reported that there have been two terrorist attacks on pilgrims, resulting in 14 casualties over the past five years. This information was shared in response to a question by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee in the Lok Sabha.
Rai explained that the government has taken several measures to ensure the safety and security of pilgrims. These measures include issuing advisories, sharing intelligence through institutional mechanisms, and providing Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) when requested by the concerned State or Union Territory.
For the safety of pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir, the government has framed and implemented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Adequate security arrangements have been coordinated with all security agencies. Specific measures for the Amarnath Yatra (SANJY) 2024 include the installation of CCTV cameras along the routes, camps, and langer points for proper surveillance and monitoring. Drone surveillance is also in place at sensitive locations, and specialized quick-action teams have been deployed. Corridor protection is provided by the Army, and senior-level officers are stationed at Pahalgam and Baltal to monitor the arrangements.
Additionally, Rai reported that 577 CAPFs and Assam Rifles personnel have died due to heart attacks and illness in Naxal-affected areas between 2019 and 2023.
Doubts Revealed
Nityanand Rai -: Nityanand Rai is a Minister of State for Home Affairs in India. He helps look after the country’s internal security and safety.
TMC MP -: TMC MP stands for Trinamool Congress Member of Parliament. Trinamool Congress is a political party in India, and an MP is someone elected to represent people in the Parliament.
Amarnath Yatra -: Amarnath Yatra is a pilgrimage to a holy cave in the Himalayas, where people go to worship Lord Shiva. It is a very important journey for many Hindus.
CCTV -: CCTV stands for Closed-Circuit Television. These are cameras used to monitor and record activities for security purposes.
Drone surveillance -: Drone surveillance means using flying robots, called drones, to watch and record areas from the sky for safety and security.
Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) -: CAPFs are special police forces in India that help maintain law and order and protect the country from internal threats.
Assam Rifles -: Assam Rifles is a paramilitary force in India that helps maintain security in the northeastern part of the country.
Naxal-affected areas -: Naxal-affected areas are regions in India where there are groups called Naxalites who sometimes fight against the government. These areas need extra security.