Heightened Security Measures Implemented in Haryana’s Nuh Amid Controversial Religious Procession
In response to escalating tensions surrounding a controversial religious procession, security has been significantly heightened in the Nuh district of Haryana. The Vishva Hindu Parishad’s (VHP) call for a Shobha Yatra on Monday has sparked concerns over potential communal clashes, prompting the authorities to intensify security arrangements.
Haryana Chief Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar, has made it clear that permission has not been granted for the said procession, citing recent violence in Nuh. Instead, he has urged individuals to visit local temples for ‘jalabhishek’ as an alternative religious offering.
Despite the denial of permission from the police, the VHP has insisted on proceeding with the procession, indicating a potential clash between the organizers and the authorities. This conflicting stance has further fueled apprehensions surrounding the event.
The decision to augment security measures stems not only from the controversial procession but also from other significant events taking place in Nuh. The district is currently hosting a G20 Sherpa Group meeting from September 3 to 7. Additionally, the authorities aim to ensure law and order following the communal riots that occurred in Nuh on July 31.
While traffic on the Kundli-Manesar-Palwal Expressway and the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway will continue as normal, entry to Nuh will be restricted. Moreover, as a precautionary measure, mobile internet services in the district will remain suspended from August 26 to 28.
To ensure the maintenance of peace and security, a substantial deployment of security personnel has been implemented. The Nuh police spokesperson revealed that 1,900 Haryana Police personnel, along with 24 paramilitary force companies, have been stationed in the district.
In coordination with the security measures, the district administration has ordered the closure of educational institutions and banks on the day of the planned procession. Additionally, Section 144 of the CrPC has been enforced, prohibiting gatherings of four or more people in specific areas until Monday.
The urgency to fortify security arises from the violent clashes that transpired in Nuh and its neighboring areas following an attack on a Vishva Hindu Parishad procession on July 31. Tragically, the unrest resulted in the loss of six lives, including two home guards and a cleric.
The authorities are striving to maintain peace in the region, and the increased security presence and preventative measures are aimed at ensuring the safety of all individuals in Nuh. As tensions remain high, strict vigilance and effective communication between the concerned parties are pivotal to managing the situation responsibly.
In closing, the current scenario in Nuh serves as a testing ground for the administration’s ability to navigate through delicate religious sensitivities while ensuring the safety and well-being of the local populace. Establishing a peaceful resolution requires a balance between allowing religious expression and upholding law and order—an arduous task that the authorities are working diligently to accomplish.
