Delhi cops told to keep VVIPs off terror sites
An exclusive team from different units of the force has been asked to keep VIP movements at bay so that relief and rescue operations can be carried out efficiently
Sites of terror attacks and natural disasters should be out of bounds for politicians and VVIPs as they are a "hindrance" to relief and rescue operations, besides investigations, the Delhi police has said in its latest standard operating procedure (SOP) circulated to the force.
There is no doubt that VVIP visits to such sites are of some help in boosting the morale of victims, but they adversely affect rescue and relief operations, particularly when casualties are to be ascertained, says the note accessed by DNA. The note has been sent to all districts and units of the Delhi police.
An exclusive team from different units of the force has been asked to keep VIP movements at bay so that relief and rescue operations can be carried out efficiently.
Politicians have often been accused of using tragedies as photo opportunities for political gains. Last month, Aam Aadmi Party MLA Alka Lamba courted controversy after she was spotted on top of a hydraulic crane used by firefighters during their attempt to douse a blaze in Old Delhi's Chandni Chowk.
It has been observed that the attention and energy spent on VVIP visits could well have been avoided for the sake of victims or those still trapped under debris, the SOP says.
Similarly, senior officers are distracted and massive security arrangements are made and police jawans which can be deputed for rescue and relief operations are diverted for security duties at Air Force bases, helipads and VVIP routes, the document reads.
The note asks district DCPs and key units responsible for the security of VVIPs and vital installations to ensure that VVIP visits do not interrupt rescue and life-saving tasks. Those deployed exclusively for law and order and relief arrangements must concentrate on their duties, it says.
ONLY CHAOS...
- The latest SOP says politicians and VVIPs are a hindrance to relief and rescue operations, besides obstructing investigations
- Politicians have often been accused of using tragedies as photo opportunities for political gains