Uttar Pradesh is significantly upgrading security at the Ram Temple and other high-profile locations with the procurement of advanced 'Vidhwansak' anti-materiel sniper rifles and modern firearms.

  • Specialized snipers will be deployed at the Ram Temple, Allahabad High Court, and metro installations.
  • The state will procure high-caliber 'Vidhwansak' anti-materiel sniper rifles for the Special Security Force (SSF).
  • Modernization includes 800 submachine guns for public representative security and new arms for PAC women battalions.

The Uttar Pradesh government is significantly bolstering the security apparatus at the Ram Temple and other high-sensitivity sites through a comprehensive weapons and surveillance upgrade. Under the state's police modernization scheme, specialized snipers and cutting-edge surveillance equipment are being deployed to mitigate evolving security threats.

The security fortification will see snipers stationed at critical locations, including the Ram Temple, RRTS facilities, Lok Bhavan, metro installations, and the Allahabad High Court. To facilitate this, the government has sanctioned the purchase of three high-end sniper rifles for the Special Security Force (SSF), with each unit costing approximately ₹10.76 lakh.

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The Power of 'Vidhwansak' Rifles

The centerpiece of this upgrade is the procurement of 'Vidhwansak' anti-materiel sniper rifles. Unlike standard sniper rifles used for precision shots against personnel, these are heavy-duty weapons designed for high-impact combat.

The technical specifications of these rifles highlight their devastating capability:

  • Multi-Calibre Versatility: Capable of using 12.7mm, 14.5mm, and 20mm ammunition.
  • Effective Range: An impressive distance of 1,300 to 2,300 metres.
  • Target Profile: Specifically engineered to engage hard targets such as bunkers, lightly armored vehicles, and radar systems.
  • Weight: Substantial build, weighing between 25 and 29 kg.

Comprehensive Arsenal Modernization

The modernization drive extends far beyond sniper deployment. The state is also addressing the aging weaponry used by security personnel assigned to public representatives. A procurement of 800 9mm submachine guns and 2.56 lakh rounds of ammunition has been approved at an estimated cost of ₹5.59 crore.

Furthermore, the three newly established women battalions of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) are slated to receive a significant upgrade. The government has sanctioned roughly ₹2 crore for the acquisition of 373 pistols and 90 assault rifles to ensure these units are equipped with modern, reliable firearms. Additionally, 14 telescopic search mirrors will be integrated to enhance surveillance capabilities at sensitive installations.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this strategic move reflects a shift toward 'proactive deterrence.' By deploying anti-materiel capabilities, the state is not just preparing for conventional threats but is building a defense against more sophisticated, high-impact tactical challenges that target critical infrastructure.

The transition to anti-materiel weaponry signifies a sophisticated evolution in state security, moving from human-centric protection to infrastructure-centric defense.
Did You Know?: Anti-materiel rifles are so powerful that they are often used to disable vehicle engines and destroy communication equipment from long distances.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between a standard sniper and an anti-materiel rifle?
Standard sniper rifles are primarily used for precision shots against individuals, whereas anti-materiel rifles like the 'Vidhwansak' are designed to destroy physical objects like vehicles, bunkers, and electronics.

2. Which locations are being prioritized for this security upgrade?
High-profile locations such as the Ram Temple, Allahabad High Court, and metro installations are the primary focus of the new sniper deployment.