Punjab and Rajasthan on high alert after Operation Sindoor; schools shut, leaves cancelled

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In response to Operation Sindoor, a series of precision strikes by Indian forces on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the border states of Punjab and Rajasthan have been placed on heightened alert, with stringent security measures, as per PTI.

The strikes, carried out early Wednesday, were a direct retaliation for the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, many of them tourists. The Indian military targeted nine terror camps, sparking security concerns across border regions.

Given Punjab's 532-kilometre-long border with Pakistan and Rajasthan's 1,070-kilometre stretch, the proximity to potential retaliation zones has prompted urgent state-level responses. Authorities in both states have taken decisive steps to minimise risk and ensure readiness for any escalation.

The Punjab Police has cancelled all leaves for its personnel effective from May 7. An official directive from the Director General of Police (DGP)'s office clarified that leave would now only be sanctioned under special circumstances and must be approved by a competent authority.

Further, in light of the prevailing tension, all schools both government and private have been ordered shut in six border districts: Ferozepur, Pathankot, Fazilka, Amritsar, Gurdaspur, and Tarn Taran. All public events have also been cancelled until further notice.

Quoting Punjab Minister Aman Arora, PTI reports that the government has taken proactive steps, noting, "Punjab shares a 532-km border with Pakistan. The government's role becomes especially crucial during such military escalations. Our districts have been placed on high alert and the police, serving as the second line of defence, will stand ready alongside the Army."

In neighbouring Rajasthan, a similar pattern of preparedness has emerged. Schools have been closed in the border districts of Sri Ganganagar, Bikaner, Jaisalmer and Barmer as a precautionary measure. Government directives have also led to the cancellation of leaves for all administrative officers and police personnel deployed in border zones.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma, responding to the sensitive situation post-Operation Sindoor, has instructed officials to remain at their posts and to ensure comprehensive emergency preparedness. A high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant and DGP U R Sahoo brought together divisional commissioners, district collectors, inspectors general, and superintendents of police.

(With inputs from PTI)