Gujarat Police Cancel All Leaves Amid National Security Measures And Upcoming Rath Yatra

Ahmedabad: Following heightened national security measures, all police officers serving in city and district postings in Gujarat were directed to report for duty immediately, with all approved leaves cancelled through a notice. The directive was issued by the state’s Director General of Police (DGP) office on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, in light of ongoing civil defense activities and preparations for major upcoming events.

The move comes as India carried out Operation Sindoor, an airstrike targeting terror infrastructures in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Gujarat conducted a statewide civil defense mock drill across 18 districts on May 7 between 4:00 PM and 8:00 PM, followed by a zonal blackout exercise from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM. These exercises were part of a preparedness strategy for emergency scenarios.

In response to these developments, the DGP’s office mandated the immediate return of all officers and police personnel currently on leave. A formal circular from the police department confirmed that all previously granted leaves have been revoked with immediate effect due to the emergent situation. Officers were instructed to report back to their assigned locations without delay and notify headquarters upon return.

Looking ahead, the police force is also gearing up for the annual Rath Yatra, set to take place on June 27, 2025. To ensure law and order during the large-scale religious procession, the Gujarat police have announced a complete ban on all types of leave for officers and personnel from June 20 to June 30, 2025. Exceptions will only be made for unavoidable circumstances and must be pre-approved by departmental heads.