India vs South Africa: Security beefed up for 3rd ODI as cops wary of Hardik Patel’s protest
RAJKOT (Gujarat) : As MS Dhoni-led India take on South Africa in the third ODI, the police have made unprecedented security arrangements amidst a protest call given by Hardik Patel, who is demanding quota for the Patel community.
According to a Times of India report, the police, local administration and even the hosts, the Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA), have assured regarding the security for the third match and their ability to prevent the Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti (PAAS) from using the match to grab the attention of the international audience.
The report further added that in all, 2,100 policemen will be positioned at SCA Stadium in Khandheri on Jamnagar Road, which is double the numbers usually deployed for ODI match security.
“Those creating trouble and disrupting the match will be booked for criminal conspiracy. We have records of each and every ticket that has been issued,” Gagandeep Gambhir, Rajkot (rural) superintendent of police, told media persons on Thursday.
Meanwhile, 22-year-old Hardik has declared that his supporters will remain present in large number for the match to raise demand for the reservation under OBC category.The ODI will prove to be a litmus test for both the SCA and police, as Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel is likely to remain present for the post-match ceremony.
