Heavy Security Deployed Ahead of Holi and Ramzan in Communally Sensitive Sambhal
A group identifying as members of the Hindu Mahasabha conducted a 'havan' at the office of the Sambhal Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra on Friday, following the administration's denial of permission to hold prayers at the Shahi Jama Masjid, which they claim is originally a Hindu temple.
Sambhal Remains Alert After Last Year's Violence
The city of Sambhal in Uttar Pradesh remains under heightened alert after violent clashes erupted on November 24 last year, triggered by a controversial survey at the Shahi Jama Masjid. The riots led to the death of four individuals and caused injuries to several others, including police personnel.
To prevent any further disturbances, especially during the overlapping festivals, authorities have deployed seven companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) in the communally sensitive region.
Administration Issues Guidelines for Holi and Ramzan
Given the sensitivity around Holi falling on March 14, coinciding with the first Friday prayers of Ramzan, the local administration has issued clear directives to manage communal harmony. Hindus have been instructed to conclude Holi celebrations by 2:30 PM, after which Muslims will perform their Jumma Namaz.
Hindu Mahasabha Members Insist on Prayer at Shahi Jama Masjid
According to police reports, members of the Hindu Mahasabha arrived in Sambhal from Delhi early Friday morning, seeking official permission from SDM Vandana Mishra to conduct religious rituals at the Shahi Jama Masjid. The group submitted a formal memorandum demanding access to the disputed location.
Denied permission due to ongoing litigation over the site, the group decided to carry out their planned rituals outside the SDM's office, declaring the area as "Devbhoomi" or sacred land.
Authorities Urge Judicial Resolution
Responding to the incident, SDM Vandana Mishra explained, "These individuals, claiming affiliation with the Hindu Mahasabha, traveled from New Delhi intending to conduct rituals such as 'havan', 'pujan', and 'archana' at Shahi Jama Masjid. However, since the issue is currently under judicial consideration, we advised them to approach the court for a decision. The administration will fully comply with any judicial directive."
Satish Agrawal, representing the Hindu Mahasabha, commented, "We arrived from Delhi with the intention of performing the 'yagya' at Shahi Jama Masjid, but we were stopped at the SDM's office where heavy security arrangements were in place."
Security forces remain vigilant in Sambhal to maintain peace and avoid any escalation ahead of upcoming festivities.