New security guidelines set for malls,multiplexes

The state IB found the malls and multiplexes to be ‘highly vulnerable’ to terror strikes in their recent review.

Director General of Police S S Khandwawala told The Indian Express that the draft of the security guidelines has been handed over to the state government.

“The draft contains specific guidelines to be followed by all malls and multiplexes,including installation of CCTV cameras in specific locations,metal detectors and special hand-held detectors. It has suggested that only certified and known security agencies should be given the contract for deploying security guards,” Khandwawala said.

The draft further suggests that private security agencies which have a pan-India presence and operate especially from Mumbai or Delhi,should be deployed. No local security agencies should be allowed,adding that at present,many security agencies do not even have the mandatory licence.

The draft also makes it mandatory for malls and multiplexes to install CCTV cameras at the entrance,exit,on every floor of the mall,the roof of the building,parking lots (both underground and outside). The CCTV cameras should be placed near the ATM machines,cash counters and any other zone that is crowded. The owners of the malls-multiplexes should also develop a monitoring system to record movements of each camera. The parking lots needs to be watched for any hidden bags or weapons,the draft says.

An officer said: “We are also considering to recommend ex-servicemen for the job. The personnel working in private security agencies have no knowledge of arms and combat. They only serve as bag checkers. We have made it mandatory to deploy only trained security personnel. They need to be trained in security checks,and should know how to handle arms and should be combat-trained to control situations till the arrival of the police. Both armed and unarmed personnel will be deployed in these places”.

P L Sharma,Officer on Special Duty and Joint Secretary,Urban Development Department,said the draft is under consideration. “We have received the draft and are considering it,” he said.

A senior state IB official said malls and multiplexes carry a high risk of terror strikes because of the huge footfall they draw.

“Rana’s recce of city malls was itself an example that trouble-making elements can easily walk into such malls,study the interiors,and strike without anyone’s notice,” he said.

The state police has also issued circulars of the draft to the Commissioners of Police and the Range Inspector Generals across Gujarat.

Khandwawala said: “The Commissioners and IGPs will monitor the implementation of the draft in the malls and multiplexes under their jurisdiction. They will work with the owners of malls and multiplexes and ensure that security is properly implemented. The police will also advice them regularly on security checks and measures.”

The draft will be applicable to all malls and multiplexes in the city areas as well as small malls in the district zones. The policy will remain the same across Gujarat except for a few aspects like the number of security personnel,which will depend on the size of the mall.