Kurnool police gear up for Banni festival

Kurnool: District superintendent of police (SP) Dr Fakkeerappa Kaginelli appealed to the people of Kurnool district to celebrate Dasara, particularly the Banni Utsavam, at Devaragattu village in a peaceful manner.

The SP said the police department had taken all security measures by deploying 1,000 personnel to prevent violence during Banni festival on October 8 during which devotees divided into two rival groups and fight using sticks.

Speaking to The Hans India on Sunday, Fakkeerappa said that 7 sub-divisional police officers (SDPOs), 30 circle inspectors, 65 sub-inspectors, 223 assistant sub inspectors and head constables, 388 constables, 30 women police personnel, 50 special party forces, 3 platoons of Armed Reserved and 300 home guards would keep a tab on crowds during Banni festival.

Awareness programmes in several programmes like screening of videos, awareness camps, posters and skits had been organised to raise awareness on the disadvantages of stick fight, which is considered part of the festival. He urged the people to spread the message of Devaragattu tradition without violence and loss of lives.

The SP said village elders were advised to ensure no untoward incidents take place during the Utsavam. "Police will initiate strict action if any person creates panic situations.

People should bring to the notice of police any problems they face during the festival. If any person consume alcohol, there will be chance of he indulging in violence and getting hurt. In such a case, it will be his family which is affected most," he said.

He also said that check posts had been set up at all approaches to Devaragattu and raids were being conducting in coordination with excise department on spurious liquor manufacturing hubs. Anyone found selling liquor would be taken for task, he warned.

Besides, all entry points to Devaragattu Utsavam venue will be placed under closed circuit cameras. Police in mufti would take keep a watch on anti-social elements. Drone cameras will capture the event and children and the elderly women are suggested to keep away from Banni Utsavams. Announcements will be made both in Telugu and Kannada for the benefit of people, explained the SP.

Fire department, medical department and ambulances had been be kept ready to immediately plunge into action to take care of any untoward incident.