Gujarat Tightens Security, Bans Firecrackers, Drones

In response to increasing security concerns, the Gujarat government has announced a ban on firecrackers and drones at all public and private events across the state till May 15. The decision was made public on Friday by Harsh Sanghavi, the Minister of State for Home.

“Gujarat: No firecrackers or drones will be allowed in any functions or events until the 15th of this month. Kindly cooperate and follow the guidelines,” Sanghavi stated in his announcement.

The ban follows heightened tensions along the India-Pakistan border, especially after the Indian Armed Forces carried out precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, in retaliation for the deadly Pahalgam terror attack last month.

Efforts to Tackle Fake News and Anti-National Posts

The Gujarat Police have also intensified efforts to curb the spread of fake news and anti-national content, which has proliferated amid rising tensions. Four individuals have been charged under the First Information Report (FIR) for posting anti-national sentiments on social media, aimed at demoralizing the Indian Armed Forces.

Addressing the media at the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC), Sanghavi condemned these actions, stating, “Yesterday, in different districts of Gujarat, some individuals used social media to spread anti-national sentiments, particularly targeting the morale of our forces. FIRs have been registered against four such people. Any such misconduct will not be tolerated in Gujarat.”

He also issued a stern warning on social media, stating, “Spreading negativity and disrespect on social media won’t be tolerated. Maintain and respect the rules!”

To combat misinformation, the state’s Home Department has ramped up digital surveillance to monitor and respond swiftly to any attempts to spread false narratives.

Prime Minister and Chief Minister Discuss Border Preparedness

In light of the ongoing situation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel held a conversation to review the state’s preparedness, particularly given Gujarat’s shared borders with Pakistan across land, air, and sea. 

The discussion focused on strengthening security measures and ensuring the safety of citizens in sensitive districts like Kutch, Banaskantha, Patan, and Jamnagar.

Gujarat is the only state in India to share borders with Pakistan across these three domains, making its security vital. According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, an attempted airstrike by Pakistan targeting military installations across 15 cities, including Bhuj in Gujarat, was successfully thwarted by Indian forces.

Following the conversation, Patel tweeted that Modi had provided necessary guidance, and a high-level meeting was convened at the SEOC to assess Gujarat’s readiness.

In the meeting, Patel, along with senior officials such as Sanghavi and Chief Secretary Pankaj Joshi, reviewed security arrangements, particularly in border districts. Patel instructed officials to ensure that emergency operation centres across the state remain active 24/7, and to explore alternative communication methods, including hotlines and satellite phones, in case of an emergency.

Measures to Ensure Safety and Preparedness in Border Areas

During the meeting, Patel emphasized the need for clear directives to ensure the safety of border districts. “We are prepared to activate the evacuation plan for border villages in the affected districts. Civil defense readiness, identifying safe shelters, and ensuring supplies of essential goods like water and food are top priorities,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of preparing for potential disruptions in the supply of fuel and essential commodities.

The Chief Minister also directed the Health and Transport Departments to be fully prepared with the necessary arrangements and personnel. Additionally, district officials were instructed to identify sensitive areas and mobilize efforts to issue timely warnings to the public.

“It is important to launch a public awareness campaign to dispel panic, prevent false fears, and stop the spread of rumours,” Patel added.

Authorities have been instructed to remain on high alert, particularly in border areas, and to act swiftly if any suspicious activities or objects are reported. 

The state government has pledged full cooperation with the military and central agencies, including the Army, Air Force, Navy, Coast Guard, and Border Security Force (BSF), in ensuring public safety.

Airport Advisory Issued Due to Heightened Security

In line with enhanced security measures, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPIA) in Ahmedabad issued an advisory urging travelers to arrive well in advance, as longer wait times are expected due to increased security screenings.

“In view of enhanced security measures, passengers may experience longer wait times at the airport. We recommend arriving well in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation,” an airport source told Benefit News.

This advisory follows similar recommendations by major airlines, which have urged passengers to arrive at least three hours before their flight departure.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has also mandated additional screening procedures, including a Secondary Ladder Point Check (SLPC), which must now be completed before boarding. Additionally, entry for visitors into terminal buildings has been restricted as part of the country-wide heightened security protocols.

Follow the Benefit News channel on WhatsApp