Chandigarh, April 23: Following the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, the Punjab Government has issued a high-security alert across the state and enhanced protection measures at sensitive locations.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Director General of Police (DGP) Gaurav Yadav announced the heightened alert after a high-level security review meeting on Tuesday.
The meeting was also attended by the Chief Secretary, Home Secretary, state intelligence chief, vigilance chief and senior police officials.
Security has been intensified at religious sites, public places, and educational institutions, particularly those hosting students from Jammu and Kashmir.
Besides, individuals classified as high-risk have been given extra protection, and patrolling around their residences has been increased.
“In response to the terror strike, we immediately strengthened vigilance along the inter-state border with J&K. We’ve since scaled up security throughout Punjab, especially in areas with large public gatherings,” said DGP Gaurav Yadav.
“We are working in close coordination with J&K Police and central intelligence agencies in real-time. Pakistan wants to bleed India with a thousand cuts—we’ve responded strongly to their terror modules and will continue doing so. Punjab will remain safe.”
Chief Minister Mann echoed the concern, linking the threat to Pakistan’s ongoing proxy war.
“With a 530 km-long border with Pakistan, Punjab often faces direct fallout. Drones have been used to smuggle weapons, currency, and drugs,” he said.
He also warned of a nexus between gangsters and smugglers.
“Investigations reveal that many gangsters and smugglers are now operating together. With increased pressure on drug networks, they may try to disturb peace. These gangsters, sitting abroad, hire shooters to execute their plans. But we are capable of dealing with them. That’s why we are reinforcing our security apparatus,” Mann added.
The Chief Minister said his government was in constant contact with Jammu and Kashmir officials to ensure the safe return of Punjabis currently in the Valley.
