Haryana Police makes history with drone-deployed tear gas during protests
The drones utilized by the Haryana Police were manufactured by Drone Imaging and Information Service of Haryana Limited (DRIISHYA)
The Haryana Police recently made headlines for becoming the first Indian police force to employ drones for launching tear gas devices during a protest. This groundbreaking deployment occurred at the Shambhu Barrier, located on the Punjab-Haryana boundary, where drones were used to release tear gas shells on protesting farmers. This innovative approach represents a significant shift in crowd control tactics.
The drones utilized by the Haryana Police were manufactured by Drone Imaging and Information Service of Haryana Limited (DRIISHYA), a public limited company established in 2021. Originally designed for tasks like surveying infrastructure projects and monitoring crops, these drones were repurposed for crowd control. This adaptation underscores the versatility of drone technology in addressing various challenges.
The collaboration between the Haryana government and DRIISHYA was formalized in April 2023, indicating a strategic partnership aimed at leveraging technological advancements for law enforcement purposes. Such initiatives reflect a proactive approach to modernizing policing methods and enhancing public safety.
The tear smoke launcher mounted on the drones was developed by the Tear Smoke Unit (TSU) of the Border Security Force (BSF) in 2022. While this technology had been available, it had not been previously acquired by any state police force. The acquisition of this technology by Haryana suggests a concerted effort to adopt advanced tools for maintaining law and order.
The utilization of drones equipped with tear gas capabilities offers several advantages over traditional methods. The DRISHYAA drone model, employed by the Haryana Police, can drop multiple tear gas grenades simultaneously, streamlining the dispersal process. This efficiency minimizes the risk of injury and enhances operational effectiveness during crowd control operations.
One of the key benefits of drone-launched tear gas is the reduced risk of injury from debris generated by spent grenades. Compared to manual deployment from pump guns, which can result in canisters being thrown back at security forces, the drone-operated mechanism provides a safer alternative. This emphasis on safety underscores the police’s commitment to minimizing harm while fulfilling their duties.
Protestors affected by tear gas reported additional tactics employed by the Haryana Police, including the release of colored smoke canisters and the use of rubber bullets. These supplementary measures demonstrate a multifaceted approach to crowd control, where authorities utilize various non-lethal methods to disperse crowds and maintain public order.
The deployment of drones for tear gas release represents a notable advancement in police response capabilities. By integrating cutting-edge technology into their operations, law enforcement agencies can adapt to evolving challenges and enhance their effectiveness in managing large-scale protests and demonstrations.
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