Delhi Police tighten checks on chemical shops for Republic Day

Delhi Police Conduct Inspections Ahead of Republic Day

Ahead of the Republic Day celebrations, Delhi Police have directed all district units to inspect shops selling chemicals, drugs, and industrial substances. This is to ensure that no banned or hazardous chemicals or mixtures are sold in bulk. Police stated that this exercise is part of a larger security drive covering shops, hotels, and establishments before Republic Day.

Shop Owner Responsibilities

Shop owners must verify their records and maintain proper logs and ledgers. These directions are significant due to the blast near the Red Fort in November, which killed 15 people and injured several others. Police reported that the main accused, Dr. Uman Un Nabi, died in the blast while transporting explosives in his car.

Tracking and Surveillance Measures

Police have begun systematic tracking of chemical shops and warned owners against illegal sales or misuse. Senior officers stated that shop owners must maintain proper logs, while police teams will verify and flag unusually large or suspicious purchases. An officer said, “We are keeping a close watch to ensure that no dangerous chemicals are procured or misused for unlawful activities.”

Broader Security Drill

A broader security drill is underway in sensitive areas, with large-scale verification drives. Delhi Police and central security agencies held coordination meetings on Monday. According to a senior officer, surveillance has increased in vulnerable localities. Police, assisted by civic agencies, are installing and monitoring CCTV cameras.

Community Engagement and Monitoring

Drone surveillance will also be used in select areas. Meetings with local peace committees are being organized across districts to maintain communal harmony and curb the spread of rumors. Police have been verifying the identities of people in sensitive localities for over a month. Teams have also checked the functioning of CCTV cameras at hotels, including their recording systems and maintenance registers.

Deployment of Personnel and Traffic Control

As part of broader security measures, Delhi Police have intensified preparations to maintain law and order. Nearly 20,000 personnel, including traffic police and paramilitary forces, are deployed across the city. Multiple pickets, barricades, and vehicle-checking points have been set up, especially at entry points, party zones, markets, and nightlife hubs.

Border Security and Traffic Plans

Security has been tightened at Delhi’s borders with Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, anticipating a surge in visitors from neighboring states. Traffic police have created a detailed plan to curb drunken and rash driving, using breath analyzers extensively. Strict action is promised against violators, officials said.

Additional Security Measures

Additional forces have been deployed at India Gate and Red Fort. Station house officers have been directed to remain on the streets with their teams through the night. Quick Reaction Teams have been stationed at strategic locations.