Closed-circuit television cameras would keep a close eye on the Independence Day function at Gandhi Maidan this year.

This is the first time that the district administration has decided to install CCTV cameras at the event during which chief minister Nitish Kumar would hoist the National Flag.

Special security measures are being taken in the wake of the recent Bodhgaya blasts. “Tight security arrangements would be made on Independence Day. After the blasts, we have decided to install CCTV cameras during the function,” said district magistrate N. Saravana Kumar on the sidelines of his weekly janata durbar on Thursday.

He added: “A meeting was held three days ago with senior officials, including Patna divisional commissioner ELSN Bala Prasad. We have taken several steps regarding the security arrangements. One of the major decisions was to install CCTV cameras.”

On the number of CCTV cameras to be installed temporarily, Kumar said: “Because of security reasons, I cannot reveal the number of CCTV cameras that would be installed.”

However, a senior official at the Patna collectorate said the cameras would be installed at many locations on the maidan.

Not just the CCTV cameras, the district administration is being cautious about other security arrangements. Soon, appeals would be issued in newspapers, urging people coming to witness the function to carry identity proofs.

Kumar said: “It is a big function. Everyone would be allowed to enter the maidan after frisking. Though it is not mandatory, I would request everyone to bring an identity proof such as voter ID or PAN card. It would help the security personnel to frisk faster. It would be easier for the district administration as well to proceed with the security work with less pressure.”

VIP passes would also be issued by the district administration. They would be distributed a week in advance. These passes would mainly be for the people working in top government posts.

Elaborating on frisking, Kumar said: “It is true that no one would be stopped from entering, but if anyone is found to be suspicious, he/she would not be allowed to enter the maidan. Strict action would be taken against anyone trying to enter the maidan without being frisked.” He added that all VIPs, except the chief minister, would also be frisked.”

The preparation for the main function has begun. Kumar also said because of the blasts, tight security arrangements had been put in place for the monsoon Assembly session starting Friday.

“Not just Gandhi Maidan, tight security would be maintained on and outside the Assembly premises,” he added.