Patna: The Bihar government has placed 11 of the state’s prominent religious sites and historical monuments under the security cover of the Bihar Special Armed Police (BSAP), in a move aimed at strengthening protection for places that attract large numbers of devotees and tourists throughout the year.
The Home Department issued a notification on Monday assigning security responsibilities for the sites to the BSAP. The new arrangement came into force immediately.
Sites Declared ‘Notified Establishments’
Under the Bihar Special Armed Police Act, 2021, the government has designated all 11 locations as “notified establishments”, giving the BSAP enhanced legal authority while performing security duties.
According to the notification, BSAP personnel of the rank of Havildar and above deployed at these locations will be empowered to exercise powers under Sections 7, 8 and 9 of the Bihar Special Armed Police Act, 2021.
The provisions enable the force to take action in matters relating to security while on duty at the notified sites.
Government Cites Growing Footfall
The state government said the decision was prompted by the increasing number of visitors to Bihar’s major religious centres and historical monuments.
Officials said the deployment of a specialised armed force would strengthen surveillance, improve crowd management and enable a quicker response to emergencies.
The government added that enhanced security measures are intended to safeguard devotees, tourists and heritage structures, while ensuring better preparedness against potential security threats.
The Home Department said the new security arrangement has taken effect with immediate effect, marking a significant overhaul of security management at some of Bihar’s most important religious and cultural landmarks.
