Religious leaders’ visits put the fear of god in Mumbai cops

After spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar escaped an assassination bid in Bengaluru, the Mumbai police have decided to re-examine security cover provided to godmen who visit Mumbai.

Currently, as per central government recommendations, a couple of the spiritual/religious leaders are provided with Z-plus security.

As for the others, the police examine the place of their visit, the possible threat perception and then assess the security cover.

“Each time a godman visits the city, we examine the level of security to be provided,” said Naval Bajaj, additional commissioner of police (protection).

“Depending on whether the godman has recently been in controversy and the number of followers, we draw up a security cover that needs to be provided,” he added.

Those who feature in the Z-plus security cover include Nirankari Baba Hardev Singh and Satya Sai Baba.

Police officials say that godmen usually mingle with a large crowd unlike politicians, and hence the threat perception is considered to be greater.

Also, since they have close contact with the devotees and are also offered big garlands, it increases the risk factor.

In Mumbai, a week before any godman arrives, especially the more popular ones, the special branch is activated to gather intelligence inputs about the risks involved and dangers, if any, perceived.

A report is then submitted to the deputy commissioner of the area who then decides the security to be provided. “Since a large crowd gathers and there are multiple entry and exit points at the venue, we ensure a tight security arrangement,” said a senior police officer.

“Inside the venue too, we deploy our men,” he added.
It may be recalled in 2008, violence broke out between two factions of the Sikh community in Mulund after the bodyguard of Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Raheem opened fire at a protestor.

A 500-strong assembly of Sikh was shouting anti-Dera Sacha Sauda slogans which resulted in a mob violence. The violence escalated and continued to simmer for two days before it was brought under control.