Maharashtra on Alert: CM Fadnavis Reviews State Security Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
In light of rising tensions between India and Pakistan, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis conducted a comprehensive review of the state’s security preparedness. Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, the CM directed both police and administrative machinery to heighten vigilance and readiness across all districts.
The review covered critical aspects such as mock drills, blackout procedures, and coordination mechanisms. Fadnavis instructed officials to ensure that videos explaining blackout protocols are circulated widely among students and citizens to foster public awareness. He emphasized the importance of mass education and directed officers to deeply study the Central Government’s ‘Union War Book’ and disseminate its insights at all levels.
The CM further ordered cyber cells in each district to monitor social media for suspicious activity, particularly handles suspected of aiding Pakistan. Immediate action must be taken against those spreading misinformation or helping hostile entities. To support emergency responsiveness, Fadnavis declared that each District Collector will receive emergency funds today itself to facilitate urgent procurement of supplies. He also promised that any important proposal related to security preparedness will be approved within an hour.
In the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Fadnavis directed all municipal corporations to convene meetings and raise awareness about blackout measures. Cooperative housing societies are to be involved in these efforts. Police forces have been asked to increase combing operations and patrolling, given the potential for heightened anti-national activity.
He also declared a strict ban on filming and sharing visuals of military preparedness, classifying such actions as punishable offenses. To reinforce maritime security, the government has approved hiring of fishing trawlers where needed.
Recognizing the threat of cyberattacks, especially on vital infrastructure such as power generation and distribution facilities, Fadnavis has instructed the cybersecurity department to conduct urgent audits.
To boost coordination, the Chief Minister announced that chiefs of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard stationed in Mumbai will be invited to join the next high-level meeting via video conference. In a final move, leave for all senior officials in critical departments such as health and disaster management has been cancelled until further notice to ensure uninterrupted focus on preparedness.
The state government is also setting up a system to provide citizens with accurate and real-time updates on the evolving situation.
