CM Devendra Fadnavis Reviews Maharashtra’s Security Amid Rising India-Pakistan Tensions
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| Source: x.com/ANI |
Mumbai | May 9, 2025 – In light of increasing tension between India and Pakistan, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis held a high-level review meeting on Friday to evaluate the state's overall security, emergency preparedness, and response systems. The meeting focused on mock drills, blackouts, cyber monitoring, and hospital readiness across the state.
Accompanied by Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, the Chief Minister gave clear directives to improve coordination among police, hospitals, and local administrations in the face of any possible emergency.
District-Wide Mock Drills and Blackout Measures Ordered
CM Fadnavis emphasized the need to conduct mock drills in every district to prepare citizens and institutions for possible war-like situations. He instructed the administration to set up district-level war rooms and establish coordination mechanisms with hospitals to ensure patient care during blackout situations.
To avoid enemy detection during a potential attack, alternative power supply systems should be installed for emergency services, especially hospitals. He also recommended the use of dark-colored curtains or glasses in buildings to block indoor light from being seen outside.
Public Awareness Campaigns on Blackouts
In a bid to raise awareness, CM Fadnavis directed the distribution of educational videos on blackout dos and don’ts to students and the general public. These videos aim to prepare citizens for how to respond if lights are turned off as a precaution during emergencies.
He also instructed the administration to study the Union War Book, a central government manual on national emergency response, and share its contents with local authorities and officials.
Cyber Surveillance and Action Against Pro-Pakistan Propaganda
The Chief Minister issued a strong warning regarding the use of social media by anti-national elements. He ordered police cyber cells in every district to monitor platforms like X, Facebook, and Instagram for accounts that may be spreading misinformation or supporting Pakistan.
“If anyone is helping the enemy or spreading false information, take immediate legal action,” he said.
Emergency Funds and Rapid Approvals for Districts
To ensure rapid response in emergencies, CM Fadnavis announced an emergency fund for each District Collector, which can be used to purchase essential materials without delay. Additionally, he asked District Collectors to approve emergency proposals within one hour to speed up the decision-making process.
He also instructed them to call a meeting of all municipalities in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and involve housing societies in raising awareness about blackout procedures.
Increased Policing, Combing Operations, and Maritime Security
The CM emphasized the need for increased police vigilance, citing the possibility of anti-national activities. He urged the police to conduct more combing operations and intensive patrols in sensitive areas.
Filming or sharing videos of military preparations online was deemed a serious crime, and the administration has been asked to file cases immediately against violators.
To further boost maritime security, the CM ordered the hiring of fishing trawlers for surveillance and intelligence support in coastal regions.
Cyber Audit of Critical Infrastructure
Understanding the risk of cyber-attacks, CM Fadnavis instructed authorities to conduct an immediate cyber audit of all critical government infrastructure, especially those related to power generation and distribution.
Coordination with Military and Coast Guard
Looking ahead, the Chief Minister said that heads of all three military services and the Indian Coast Guard stationed in Mumbai will be invited to the next high-level review meeting via video conference. This is aimed at improving coordination between state agencies and the armed forces.
Government to Issue Real-Time Updates for Citizens
To avoid panic and ensure accurate communication during emergencies, the CM called for setting up a system that provides real-time updates and verified information to the public.
As geopolitical tensions mount, Maharashtra's government is stepping up its preparedness on every front, from blackouts and emergency drills to cyber audits and maritime surveillance. With CM Fadnavis taking proactive steps, the state is gearing up to protect its citizens and critical infrastructure against any unforeseen situation.
