Security tightened at Lalbagh after clash during Holi

Bengaluru: As panic gripped Lalbagh after a clash broke out between two groups last week, security measures in both Cubbon Park and Lalbagh are being tightened.

While officials in the Horticulture Department believe visitors should adhere to park rules without strict enforcement, overcrowding has long been a concern during festivals, weekends, and government holidays.

Kusuma G, Deputy Director of Horticulture at Cubbon Park, said with the holiday season approaching, the park will be closely monitored to ensure law and order.

"Currently, 21 security guards are deployed in Cubbon Park during the day shift. With Ugadi and Eid around the corner, additional security personnel will be stationed at specific locations, along with regular rounds by Horticulture Department officials,” she said.

She added that the Cubbon Park police would also be alerted, as the department plans to submit a letter requesting police assistance in managing crowds.

The deputy director also noted that the park authority is considering installing five to six small speakers near the entrance area at Bal Bhavan, broadcasting pre-recorded instructions for visitors. "The speakers will relay park guidelines, such as ‘do not litter’, ‘do not pluck flowers’, and ‘do not touch the plants'," she said.

However, she clarified that park authorities are not implementing stricter rules specifically in response to the Lalbagh incident.

M Jagadeesh, Joint Director of Horticulture (Parks and Gardens) at Lalbagh, said senior officials are holding discussions on introducing stricter guidelines for the garden. He described last week's incident as “unfortunate”.

“There is no frisking or bag-checking at the entrance. We are currently in discussions with higher authorities to evaluate additional measures,” he said.

Friday's incident  

On Friday evening, a clash broke out between two groups inside the park, according to a viral video circulating on social media. The footage showed another group playing Holi and later depicted individuals attacking each other with sticks and hurling abuses.

Jagadeesh said there is no confirmation yet on whether the visitors involved were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.