Srinagar, July 12: Security arrangements for the ongoing Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra have received another boost after the Jammu and Kashmir Police detained a suspected Over Ground Worker (OGW) following an alert generated by the Facial Recognition System (FRS) deployed along the Yatra route.
The incident occurred at the Nunwan X-Ray Point in Anantnag district, where the AI-enabled surveillance system flagged a person during routine screening of pilgrims and visitors.
Facial Recognition Triggers Alert
According to police officials, the Facial Recognition System generated an alert after matching the individual’s facial profile with records available in the security database.
Acting immediately on the alert, security personnel intercepted the individual for identity verification and questioning.
Suspect Identified
Police identified the detained individual as Faisal Muzaffar, a resident of Pulwama district.
Officials said he has been taken into custody for verification, and further legal proceedings are being carried out in accordance with the law. Authorities have not disclosed additional details regarding the nature of the allegations or any specific case linked to the suspect.
Second Such Detention in a Week
This is reportedly the second suspected Over Ground Worker (OGW) to be intercepted during the ongoing Amarnath Yatra after an alert generated by the Facial Recognition System, highlighting the increasing role of technology in securing one of India’s largest annual pilgrimages.
Technology Strengthening Yatra Security
The Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with other security agencies, have deployed an extensive multi-layered security grid for the pilgrimage, including:
- AI-powered Facial Recognition Systems (FRS)
- CCTV surveillance
- Drone monitoring
- Multi-tier frisking and baggage screening
- Quick Response Teams (QRTs)
- Anti-sabotage checks along the Yatra routes
Officials said these measures are aimed at ensuring the safety of lakhs of pilgrims visiting the holy Amarnath Cave Shrine.
Enhanced Vigilance
Security agencies said the latest interception demonstrates the effectiveness of technology-driven surveillance in identifying persons of interest and strengthening preventive security measures during the pilgrimage.
The annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra continues under heightened security, with authorities maintaining round-the-clock surveillance across both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes to ensure a safe and incident-free pilgrimage.