In a bid to strengthen security and crisis management at events drawing large gatherings, the Union Home ministry is learnt to have instructed the police chiefs across states and Union Territories to clearly define responsibilities for event organisers and maintain detailed records of arrangements, experiences, and takeaways, The Indian Express has learnt.
The directive, issued recently, comes after several states witnessed loss of human lives due to overcrowding or lapses in coordination at high-profile mega events, including religious congregations and cultural festivals.
The directions were issued a few days ago after the matter was discussed at the DG-IG Conference in Raipur in November last year. Officials said the move aims to create a standardised framework for better planning and rapid response in potential crisis situations.
A source said the DGPs and Chief Secretaries have been directed that responsibilities of organisers of mega events should be clearly defined. “The organisers should adhere to the agreed arrangements and timelines…We should also ensure distinct dress codes for organisers and volunteers for their easy identification in times of need,” the source said, citing the directions.
Under the guidelines, state police authorities must ensure that organisers of events drawing massive crowds, submit comprehensive plans outlining duties for crowd control, emergency evacuations, medical aid, and surveillance.
“All the DGPs have been directed that special workshops should be organised by them after completion of mega events to analyse and discuss the arrangements for further improvement. Responsibilities should be explicitly assigned to avoid ambiguity during execution,” an official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Additionally, DGPs have been asked to regularly document post-event reviews, including logistical arrangements, security deployments, and any incidents encountered.
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“After conducting some mega events, the State/UTs police and administration should regularly document the arrangements which were made by them, their experiences and whatever they have learnt in organising mega events to facilitate better planning of such events and handling crisis situations. These records will form a central repository to inform future events, enabling data-driven improvements and reducing recurrence of issues like stampedes or terror threats,” the source said.
