Mismanagement and confusion was witnessed at the entrance of almost all the enclosures as common people stormed in huge numbers to see the 69th Republic Day Parade.
Security forces of the Delhi police had a tough time to control the crowd as all of them wanted to enter the venue. Several of the visitors had to return disappointed even after travelling from far off places.
Four friends, who had come to see the parade for the first time, had a harrowing experience after they were not allowed to enter the enclosure where they were supposed to be seated.
“We left Gurugram at 5.30 in the morning and managed to reach at the earliest. However, we had to walk a long stretch to reach the security gate of our enclosure. The doors opened at 7 AM and within the next 12 minutes, the officials informed us that we would not be allowed to get in because the enclosure was full,” said Akansha, who had come from Lucknow.
One of her three friends had specially travelled from South India to witness the parade but had to return disappointed.
“We kept trying by going to other enclosure gates but after they failed miserably, they left for their houses,” she added
Sources claimed that more number of passes than the actual capacity was distributed to the visitors leading to problems and chaos everywhere.
While some of the people were allowed to take their bags inside, others were seen digging the ground to bury their bags and belongings to prevent them from losing.
Besides this, people were seen entering at the venue even after 9 AM entry beyond which was prohibited.
I was a part of the Bharat Mata formation. Initially, we were scared of the bikes as they were very heavy. But our instructor helped us a lot and garnered confidence in us. We now aim to make 16 different formations
—Jasvinder Kaur, women constable of BSF stationed at Ferozpur
We had practised a lot for one and half years. I was a part of the peacock formation and was positioned in the centre. Surprsingly, I was not nervous, but after the conclusion of the event, I feel great. We can now compete even with the boys.
—Sheenu Shakya, women constable of BSF stationed at Jaisalmer
I was a part of the Guldasta formation and was positioned in the centre as the Brahma. After the performance todya, I feel that women can easily compete with the boys at every stage. One should not go by the physical appearance but consider the ability of the person
—Sadhna, women constable of BSF stationed at Tripura
We have been waiting for this opportunity for long. Strangely women have not got the platform where they can showcase their skills. There is a lot of passion in many of the women and I would want that they get the correct platform to grow
—Sumita, women constable of the BSF stationed at North Bengal
I was a part of the parallel Bar. Initially I was tense and nervous. But soon we eased out and confidently covered the 3 km stretch. It was only after I joined the forces, girls from my village were inspired and expressed their desire ti join the forces. I think that all the willing girls should be given an opportunity to showcase their skills and passion
—Divya Kaur, women constable of the BSF stationed at Jaisalmer
