Ground work begins much earlier: Sanjay Agarwal

Q) When did you start planning for such an event at this level?

A) Jaipur Literature Festival has become a part of the annual calendar of Jaipur Police activities. Each year we take experience from the previous year(s) and chalk-out a detailed plan of action. Though groundwork begins much earlier, close coordination and daily interaction with the organizers and various stakeholders begin almost a month in advance. With the commissioning of the Abhay Command Centre, in March 2017, this time we had requested DoIT for providing connectivity of CCTV cameras from JLF to the Abhay Command Centre. For this, they had begun working on the connectivity in December 2017.

Q) How is the selection process of cops done?

A) It is a proud privilege of Jaipur Police to be associated with the conduct of JLF. We ensure that there is a healthy mix of young and energetic police personnel along with those sufficiently experienced in handling such large gatherings. Component of special units like QRT, Traffic Police, Lady Police Patrol Units, Plain-clothes men, HHMD/DFMD handlers etc. are done based on their training and previous work experience. This is a festival of the people of Jaipur and every member of Jaipur Police is a brand ambassador of Jaipur. It is ensured that the personnel are in their best turnout, are polite yet firm in discharge of their duties.

Q) Can you elaborate on the drill aspect?

A) We plan for various scenarios and design situation-specific Standard Operating Procedures. The JLF presents issues like orderly movement of large crowds, security concern, safety of women and senior citizens, VIP security etc. Senior officers make multiple visits to the venue and the nearby areas to ensure each police person is deployed with specific task. Anti-sabotage checks, verification of personnel deployed in the arrangements are other safeguards put in place. Briefing of staff and their deployment a day before the D-day works as a dress rehearsal for the mega event.

The main theme behind the arrangements is that every participant of JLF should have a great time and cherish good memories of the event while those not attending the event are not adversely affected in any way.

Q) This was a huge challenge with overlapping events like Republic Day and the byelections. And also with the threat over Padmaavat, how did you manage everything?

A) Undoubtedly we were occupied on various parallel fronts at the same time. The success in planning and execution for multiple programmes is credited to the enormous support we have received from the State Govt., the PHQ, and the organizers of JLF. As regards to Republic Day, the sensitivity is always on the higher side. Intel collection, checking of public places/ places of stay/ transport, surprise nakabandi and increased visibility are key elements of police action. The diversion of police resources towards the by-election was not too big, but nevertheless, certain component was committed towards this duty. In the end, the entire team of the Jaipur Commissionerate put in their hearts and minds to synchronize the execution of duties on multiple fronts at the same time.

Q) How much do you depend on the intel process with other states?

A) Sharing of intelligence is the backbone of any event of this stature. JLF witnesses participants from across the globe. There are volunteers, writers, celebrities, academicians etc. from various parts of the country and beyond. We keep our ears on the ground regarding developments in different sectors which may have a bearing on the JLF.