Introduction
The Telangana Government has announced a significant update in the security protocol at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana Secretariat in Hyderabad. Aimed at enhancing the safety of one of the state’s most vital administrative hubs, security responsibilities are being officially transferred from the Telangana Special Police to the Telangana Special Protection Force (TGSPF). This change is intended to leverage TGSPF’s expertise in safeguarding sensitive sites, with the handover directive formalized under the General Administration Department’s Government Order (G.O.) No. 227.
Background and Key Directives of the Security Transition
The decision stems from G.O. Ms. No. 71, initially issued in April 2023, which outlined the essential security measures for the Secretariat, including the deployment of armed guards, patrolling, access control, and anti-sabotage checks. These tasks were initially allocated to the Telangana Special Police, with additional roles for the Quick Reaction Team (QRT), the OCTOPUS unit, and the Hyderabad City Police for general law and order and traffic control.
Recently, the Director General of Police (DGP) of Telangana recommended reassessing these arrangements, suggesting that TGSPF, trained specifically for high-security environments like government establishments and airports, would be better suited to assume these responsibilities. The government carefully evaluated this recommendation and has now directed TGSPF to assume control of the security at the Secretariat.
Specialized Role of Telangana Special Protection Force (TGSPF)
TGSPF brings specialized skills in protecting government establishments and infrastructure, which is a core part of their mandate. Unlike the general-purpose Telangana Special Police, TGSPF is specifically trained to handle sensitive, high-risk areas where stringent security protocols are required. The transition aligns with Telangana’s strategic approach to enhance the protection standards for its key facilities, safeguarding them from potential threats.
Continuation of OCTOPUS and Hyderabad City Police Responsibilities
While TGSPF takes over the primary security management duties, other specialized units, such as the Hyderabad City Police and the OCTOPUS, will continue their roles as established under the original G.O. Ms. No. 71. The OCTOPUS team remains responsible for immediate response tasks, while the Hyderabad City Police will manage broader law and order along with traffic oversight around the Secretariat premises.
Next Steps and Implementation
Following this directive, the Director General of Police, Telangana, is tasked with coordinating the transition, ensuring that TGSPF personnel are promptly deployed and that a smooth handover is executed. By integrating TGSPF’s capabilities into the Secretariat’s security framework, the state aims to provide a reinforced security strategy that reflects the Secretariat’s critical role in Telangana’s administration.
Conclusion
The shift in security responsibilities from Telangana Special Police to TGSPF at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Telangana Secretariat underscores Telangana’s commitment to bolstering security through specialized units. As the state continues to advance its administrative and security structures, this handover represents a proactive step in ensuring the safety of its governmental operations and personnel.