Yogi Adityanath cancels officials' leave, orders high alert ahead of festivals

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has cancelled the leave of government officials and employees ahead of the upcoming festive season, directing authorities to remain on high alert and strengthen security arrangements across the state. Leave will be permitted only in exceptional circumstances, he said.During a meeting in Lucknow to review preparations for the upcoming festivals, including Deepotsav, Diwali, Chhath and Dev Deepawali, the Chief Minister instructed officials to make security and social harmony their top priorities.Issuing a stern warning against attempts to disrupt festive celebrations, Yogi Adityanath said any conspiracy to turn the atmosphere of celebration into one of unrest would not be tolerated.He directed the administration to follow a zero-tolerance policy against anti-social elements and take strict action against those attempting to disturb law and order. As part of the security arrangements, the Chief Minister instructed police to ensure round-the-clock surveillance in markets. Adequate police personnel must also be deployed at major temples and sensitive religious sites to prevent any untoward incidents during the festive period.He also ordered continuous monitoring of social media platforms and strict action against individuals spreading rumours or attempting to disturb communal harmony. On fire safety, Yogi Adityanath directed officials to ensure that firecrackers are sold only at open and designated safe locations. He also instructed the Fire Department to remain on high alert to deal with any emergencies during the celebrations.Apart from security, the Chief Minister emphasised the need to ensure uninterrupted essential services across the state during the festivals. He directed officials to maintain an uninterrupted supply of electricity and water, along with proper sanitation and adequate lighting arrangements.During the review, the Chief Minister also took up issues concerning farmers, directing officials to take strict action against the black marketing of fertilisers and negligence in paddy procurement.He said farmers should not face difficulties in accessing fertilisers or selling their produce. Officials responsible for any lapses that cause inconvenience to farmers would face action, he warned.The Chief Minister also called for exemplary action against those involved in irregularities in ration distribution, particularly cases of underweight supplies. He directed authorities to ensure that those found guilty face action that serves as a deterrent to others.Yogi Adityanath further directed officials to ensure that outsourced employees and Anganwadi workers receive their honorarium before the festivals.Reiterating his administration's zero-tolerance approach towards disturbances, the Chief Minister said festivals should be celebrated in an atmosphere of happiness, peace and social harmony.He warned that anyone attempting to take the law into their own hands or disturb public order would not be spared, and directed the administration to remain vigilant throughout the festive period.- Ends