Stricter security in place at Soudha

The restrictions, which were first imposed when the Bangalore Metro work began in front of Vidhana Soudha, is now firmed up for visitors. As a result, the building now has just one entry point – the Kengal Hanumanthaiah statue side.

The Ambedkar statue gate in the front, opposite the High Court, where entry of vehicles was barred, is now closed for pedestrians also. However, employees will be allowed to enter through the gate between 9 am to 11 am.

The visiting hours for the public, between 3 pm and 5 pm, has not been changed. Those wanting to enter Vidhana Soudha on foot will have to use the Kengal Hanumanthaiah statue gate or the Vikas Soudha gate. The restrictions, which came into effect on Tuesday afternoon, will be in place for the next three years at least.

As a result of this, the number of visitors to Vidhana Soudha has drastically reduced. Principal Secretary, Home, S M Jaamdar said that frisking, metal detector test, increase in security personnel and stricter rules had been put in place to ensure that Vidhana Soudha did not become too crowded.

He said the security measures were being taken following instructions from the Union Home Ministry after the recent blasts.

“The impact of a blast can be felt as far as 100 metre away. We had to ensure that the entry gates are 100 metre away from the building. Yes, it is an impediment to the visitors.
But they have to bear some trouble to ensure that security is not compromised with”.