Jamshedpur, Aug 11: Appropriate to the ongoing pandemic, the East Singhbhum district administration has started preparations for Independence Day celebration with social distancing norms in place. The cadets and police personnel who participated in the march past had to undergo Covid tests and all were found to be negative. Like in the last year, it is mandatory for all participants to wear face masks and follow necessary COVID protocols.
The rehearsals witnessed a parade by the jawans of Indian Reserve Battalion ( IRB), Jharkhand Armed Police ( JAP ) and homeguards. The district administration has banned participation of school children at the event. The function will be organised with limited participation. Moreover, the local people have also been asked not to come to the venue but view the celebration on a virtual platform.
The Deputy Commissioner Suraj Kumar said that in accordance with the guidelines of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India and Ministry of Health the program will be celebrated without violating the norms of COVID-19. The Deputy Commissioner has also directed educational institutes, social organisations to simply host Tricolour without mass gathering.
In view of the COVID-19 pandemic earlier it was decided to organise a small function at the district collectorate, now it will take place at Gopal Maidan, amidst limited gathering.
Freedom fighters would also be felicitated. Due to the pandemic, the district administration took a decision to felicitate freedom fighters by visiting their homes. The administration has strictly banned participation of children in the event. The day will be celebrated without public gathering under social distancing norms.
Alert sound in Naxal infested areas
Vigilance has increased at Naxal infested areas in view of Independence Day celebration. The borders with West Bengal and Odisha have been sealed. CRPF and District Force personnel are being deployed along with Cobra Battalion. Every year on Independence Day, ultras proclaim black flag. This time, the border of the Maoists areas will be sealed a day in advance. Security has been beefed up in view of the activeness of Aseem Mandal alias Akash squad at Patmada and Galudih areas. Apart from this, Madan Mahato’s squad is reported to be active again in Galudih. A police official said that vigilance has been increased in Naxal areas. LRP has started in all three districts. Special monitoring is being done on the border of the areas from where the movement of Naxalites is known.
