NEW DELHI: Till Tuesday afternoon, there were no signs that the violence in northeast Delhi would come to an end any time soon. Police had evidently failed in stopping the rioters from wreaking havoc and the morale of the force seemed to have hit rock bottom with severe criticism coming from all sides. However, Delhi Police bounced back and regained control of the law and order situation in less than 24 hours.

While National Security Advisor Ajit Doval was tasked to ensure that peace returns to the region, special DG (CRPF) SN Shrivastava was given the order to join as the law and order chief immediately. The fresh guard remained on the ground for over 20 hours to fulfil the purpose.

The first step was a coordinated and adequate deployment. Three special commissioners, six joint commissioners, an additional commissioner, 22 DCPs, 20 ACPs, 60 inspectors, 1,200 male and 200 women personnel and 60 companies of outside forces were stationed at crucial locations. Union home minister Amit Shah reviewed the situation every two hours.

In the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday, the changed attitude of police was clearly visible. The policemen were proactive in dispersing fresh gatherings, which were being attempted by different groups claiming to be protesting against Citizenship Amendment Act.