Heightened Security in Bhubaneswar Amid Khalistani Threat to DGP-IGP Conference

Bhubaneswar: Security has been ramped up in Bhubaneswar by Odisha Police and central forces following a threat from US-based Khalistani extremist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The warning targeted the ongoing DGP-IGP conference, which is being attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

Patrolling and vehicle checks were intensified from Saturday night and will continue through Monday morning at critical junctions across the city. Surveillance has been heightened along key routes, particularly those leading to Biju Patnaik International Airport, and security has been extended to lanes and by-lanes across the city.

Authorities have set up checkpoints and blockades at major intersections, conducting thorough vehicle inspections and questioning individuals where necessary. The security measures are a coordinated effort involving Odisha Police, central forces, the Special Protection Group (SPG), and the state’s intelligence wing.

Pannun’s threats, reportedly sent via audio messages and emails to several journalists, warned of potential disruptions, including at Bhubaneswar International Airport on December 1.

Police and intelligence agencies have assured that extensive security protocols are in place to ensure the safety of the three-day event and the city. The enhanced measures reflect the gravity of the threat and the importance of safeguarding the high-profile conference.