Poll-bound Bihar is on high alert ahead of the 2nd and final phase of voting following the powerful car blast that killed at least 8 people near Delhi’s Red Fort Metro Station.
On Monday night, the Bihar Deputy Inspector General (ATS) issued a statewide security advisory directing all Senior Superintendents of Police (SSP) and Superintendents of Police (SP) to maintain heightened vigilance.
Furthermore, the circular instructed district police chiefs to conduct intensive checking of key public areas for potential security implications. This includes religious and tourist sites, crowded markets, administrative buildings, military cantonments, and all transportation hubs such as bus terminals, railway and metro stations. The directive also called for strengthening borders and sensitive checkpoints, ensuring CCTV functionality and close coordination among all security agencies.
Whilst social media can be helpful in times like these, the police are aware of its potential dangers. The circular thus also called for heightened social media monitoring, ensuring prompt refutation of rumours, whilst also warning of legal action against those spreading misinformation.
Remember, the deadly blast in Delhi came the day before Bihar votes for the remaining 122 constituencies.
Key players such as incumbent Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and hopefuls like RJD’s Tejashwi Yadav are hoping the incident will not discourage the electorate. Especially after phase 1 recorded a historic 64.7% turnout, the highest ever in the state’s assembly poll history.
