2K Police Personal To Guard Narendra Modi’s Meditation Amidst Criticism (image- instagram/narendramodi)
When Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to begin his nearly two-day meditation exercise at Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari, his security has been beefed up ahead of Modi’s visit. With just two days remaining for the last phase of the Lok Sabha election, criticism has poured in as his visit coincides with the silent period.
Amidst the whole controversy, the state has deployed 20,000 police personnel and various security agencies to maintain a tight vigil during the PM’s 45-hour stay at Vivekananda Rock Memorial.
Modi has scheduled to meditate from Thursday evening to Saturday morning. Apart from the 2k fielded guards, the Indian Coast Guard and Indian Navy would also maintain tight vigil. The Tirunelveli range DIG Pravesh Kumar accompanied by superintendent of police E Sundaravathanam, had inspected the security arrangements at the rock memorial, boat jetty, helipad and the state guest house.
All 2000 cops and media houses in the following days will be fielded next to the prime minister to grasp each moment. However, Modi’s plan to be televised has irked many of the opposition parties as it is a clear violation of the mode of conduct. “We will complain. He can meditate, but it cannot be aired on television”, Mamata said. The chief minister further asked, “Does anyone have to get cameras to do meditation?”
A silent meditation has now garnered national attention and has resulted in controversies. The ruling DMK has submitted a petition opposing permission for the Prime minister’s spiritual visit. They have cited the election mode of conduct in effect and the ongoing tourism season as their reason in the complaint filed.
The Congress has alleged that Modi is trying to “circumvent” the silence period restrictions with his meditation. However, the BJP defended by claiming that the opposition is in panic and fear that they are going to lose the election. With 2k police personnel and media around, the choice of silent meditation in a public spot carries a larger political meaning. With the two-day mediation, Modi is set to mark the end of a hectic Lok Sabha election campaign.
