Kochi range control Kochi IG P Vijayan has issued strict instructions to police officers not to spoil the celebratory mood while ensuring safety during New Year celebrations.
The circular asks the police officers and officials who are on duty to ensure security, but also warned against initiating any action on suspicion, and urged policemen on duty to rely on strong evidence.
The safety measures taken will also include partygoers on boats. IG P Vijayan said, “Action should be taken to ensure that prior precautions are taken for the safety of partygoers on houseboats and other boats," read the press release.
Officers have been given directives on handling drunk drivers as well. “Persons brought to police stations for drunk driving should be subjected to medical exam and released on bail,” read the IG’s statement.
Extra police force will be deployed around Bevco’s retail outlets and other liquor outlets considering the heavy rush that is expected on New Year’s Eve. Police will also assist Bevco staff to close down shops on time.
Police officers are also asked to provide assistance to partygoers in case of chaos and confusion. “Do not leave any phone calls and wireless message unattended at police stations and officers should take immediate steps. Experienced officers should be deployed on patrol and other duties,” he said in his statement.
At the same time Vijayan made it clear that rave parties will not be allowed in the city. A prior inquiry will be conducted against rave parties and legal steps should be initiated against organizers. Stringent action has been suggested against participants, organizers and also the person who allocated the place, if drugs are used during celebrations.
The other instructions include, strict action on drunk and rash driving, drinking in public places and creating ruckus in public under the influence of alcohol, illegally using loudspeakers.
Measures are also taken to intensify surveillance and avoid any kind of unpleasant incidents during the New Year’s Eve. In its circular, additional commissioner (enforcement) has instructed all deputy commissioners to ensure that at least five civil excise officers from each excise station should be patrolling the areas under them.
The officials have also launched control rooms, which will be functioning round-the-clock. State police chief Loknath Behera has said the police have made all arrangements and given instructions to all district police chiefs to take necessary precautions.