Home Ministry asks DGPs to standardise protocol for events drawing large crowds

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.

“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.