Major lapse in the security of the Prime Minister in Bathinda: Govt

In a statement released by the Ministry, it was said that the Punjab government were supposed to make necessary arrangements for logistics, security and a contingency plan along with additional security to secure any movement by road. But, according to the Home Ministry, it was not done.

On January 5, the Prime Minister landed at Bathinda airport from where he had to take a helicopter and go to the National Martyrs Memorial at Hussainiwala.

“Due to rain and poor visibility, the Prime Minister waited for about 20 minutes for the weather to clear out. When the weather did not improve, it was decided that he would visit the National Martyrs Memorial via road, which would take more than two hours. He proceeded to travel by road after necessary confirmation of necessary security arrangements by the DGP Punjab Police,” the Ministry said.

It added, “Around 30 kms away from the National Martyrs Memorial in Hussainiwala, when the Prime Minister’s convoy reached a flyover, it was found that the road was blocked by some protestors. The Prime Minister was stuck on a flyover for 15-20 minutes. This was a major lapse in the security of the Prime Minister.”

After this security lapse, the PM returned to Bathinda Airport.

“The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) taking cognisance of this serious security lapse has sought a detailed report from the state government. The State Government has also been asked to fix responsibility for this lapse and take strict action,” it said.