In a big move, the Uttar Pradesh government has directed covering mosques with plastic sheets or tarpaulin in sensitive places, during Holi festival as well as on Friday prayers on Ramzan. The directive shall be implemented at places such as Sambhal, Shahjahanpur, and Meerut, where tensions between communities over the past years have been cause for concern.
These measures have been part of a comprehensive security program, according to officials, aimed at averting any untoward situation. District administrations have gone out of their way to cover mosques on strategic routes, arrested individuals who could be troublemakers, and maintained stringent surveillance through barricades and CCTV cameras.
Early on Thursday morning, under the supervision of sub-divisional magistrate Vandna Mishra, police and local authorities began draping the ancient Jama Masjid in Sambhal. “Besides Jama Masjid, nine other mosques along the route of the Holi procession have also been draped as a precautionary measure. The district has been divided into sectors to ensure a peaceful Holi celebration,” Mishra further added.
Friday prayers and Holi processions have been rescheduled, with an agreement to conduct prayers either prior to or post celebrations. Mosques have also been opened to local worshippers only.
A peace conference at the Sambhal police station saw communal religious leaders of both groups sit together and reiterate the importance of maintaining communal harmony. A senior police officer reiterated the importance of mutual respect and coordination to maintain peace at this moment.
The need for such measures stems from ongoing tensions in Sambhal, particularly after a court-ordered survey of Jama Masjid in November resulted in violent protests leading to fatalities and injuries. With the processions of Holi passing through sensitive areas, the administration has stepped up security, arresting over 1,015 individuals as a precautionary measure.
In Shahjahanpur, where there is a special ‘Joota Maar Holi’ tradition, the authorities have also shrouded over 75 mosques and shrines along the route of the procession. This tradition, based on a historical background of resistance against colonialism, requires cautious handling to prevent communal unrest.
Enormous security arrangements have been made, with the larger procession being further segmented into eight sectors and three zones. Around 100 magistrates and 1,500 policemen have been stationed to keep the peace, along with two battalions of the Provincial Armed Constabulary.
Heightened security deployments are not limited to Sambhal and Shahjahanpur only; other sensitive areas such as Mathura, Ayodhya, Varanasi, and Meerut have also seen a heightened security presence, with additional paramilitary forces being deployed.
Preventive measures encompass detentions along with tough on-ground patrols, where over 2,400 individuals were identified as likely to instigate violence. There has been criticism that followed with statements by the officials suggesting that Muslims remain at home during Holi celebrations, as repeated by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, where he pressed for maintaining law and order.
Political remarks have also fueled tensions with insinuations from various leaders leading to the discussion of prayers and festival. Nevertheless, leaders in communities also appeal to the people to stay calm with an emphasis on the communal aspect of the festivals.
In all places, Hindu and Muslim leaders have gathered to ensure harmonious celebrations. “We have been celebrating Holi and observing Friday prayers together for decades. There is a sense of understanding and respect among us,” stated a Meerut resident, referring to the strength and cooperation of communities.
