Security at Secretariat revamped
HERALD REPORTER
PANJIM, DEC 7
After the expose of security lapse at the Legislative Assembly complex at Porvorim, the entire protection measures have been modified.
Personal inspection by Herald on November 3 at this most sensitive establishment revealed certain flaws in the execution of the security plan. It was not much difficult for anyone to get inside unchecked or showing fake identity.
The security arrangements have however been revamped and every guard is instructed to verify details of visitors before entering the venue. Moreover, the entrances have been restricted with intensified security personnel.
Earlier, a normal visitor would encounter first security ring in the form of armed security policemen, to be precise two to three of them. This cover was not an issue for government servants, who could show their Identity Card and step in.
The registration which seemed just a formality then is now stricter and cross-checked. The security had been strengthened since November 1 onwards. The security lapse was clearly visible also as a persons candidly walking around inside the building were not questioned.
The vast secretariat complex houses ministerial blocks where ministers carry out their routine activities, bureaucrats and most importantly assembly sessions is slated to begin soon.
Besides the Goa police squad, the secretariat has private security manning the entire premise.
At present, apart from a large squad of private security, 30 armed and plain clothed policemen are deployed in the premise. Goa police recently proposed the Government of one platoon Central Security force to be deployed at the secretariat.
