With increasing military tensions with Pakistan, a number of Indian states have initiated rapid internal security operations. Operation Sindoor, launched following the April 22 terror strike in Pahalgam that claimed 26 civilians lives, is still in progress. States such as Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and West Bengal have also taken concerted measures to secure the public. These precautions involve closing schools along the border, cancelling employee leave, halting flights, and increasing monitoring at coastal points and places of worship.
Schools Closed in Border Districts
Schools have been closed in six districts in Punjab: Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran. Gurdaspur will also experience an eight-hour blackout from 9 PM Thursday.
Rajasthan followed the same course. Schools in Sri Ganganagar, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, and Barmer have been shut. Colleges in Jodhpur were also instructed to close shop by the authorities.
Police and Government Leaves Canceled
The states have also called back police and government staff from leave. Punjab canceled all leave for police except in exceptional circumstances approved by higher officers. Rajasthan also enforced the same policy on police and administration personnel in border districts.
Similarly, Haryana suspended leave for police and health personnel. Officers are not allowed to stay outside their given districts and headquarters.
Gujarat also joined the bandwagon, instructing police officers to return immediately. West Bengal even went a step further—issuing a directive to cancel all government leave, including those approved in advance, except for medical emergencies.
Blackouts and Flight Suspensions Start
To minimize visibility and ward off threats, blackouts will be held in Gurdaspur and five Rajasthan districts from midnight to 4 AM on Friday.
In the meantime, air operations at Bikaner, Kishangarh (Ajmer), and Jodhpur continue to be suspended until May 10. The flight ban was ordered by Rajasthan to avoid risks from possible airspace violations.
Gujarat Boosts Coastal Security
Since Gujarat shares land and sea borders with Pakistan, it has increased coastal security. Police teams in Jamnagar, Morbi, and Devbhumi Dwarka are now conducting patrols through fishing villages and checking boat landing sites. Authorities have asked people to report suspicious activity immediately.
While Himachal Pradesh does not have a direct border with Pakistan, it has stepped up security in Hamirpur, Una, and Bilaspur—districts close to the border area. Authorities closely monitor important shrines such as Baba Balak Nath, Maa Chintpurni, and Maa Naina Devi with the expectation of large gatherings and potential attacks.
Apart from physical security, the larger exercise is sustaining civil calm. The extensive coordination at the state level reflects increasing alarm regarding civilian protection during potential hostilities.
