Tarpaulin Covers Sambhal’s Jama Masjid before Holi; Over 1,000 Restrained
Image Source: India Today
Ahead of Holi, security was intensified in Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal, with the Shahi Jama Masjid and nine other mosques along the designated procession route covered with tarpaulins. This measure aimed to prevent colours from reaching religious sites and to maintain communal harmony. Over 1,000 individuals have been bound over—a legal provision requiring individuals to furnish a bond or surety to ensure good conduct—as a precautionary step. According to Sambhal ASP Shreesh Chandra, ten religious sites along the route were covered with mutual consent from both communities. “The decision was taken to prevent any religious sentiments from being hurt,” he stated.
SDM Vandana Mishra outlined the district’s strategic security arrangements, with the area divided into sectors and sub-sectors for better monitoring. “Lekhpals have been stationed at all mosques at the tehsil level, conducting field inspections with revenue officials. Additionally, tehsildars, naib tehsildars, and I am overseeing the security. So far, 1,015 people have been bound over under relevant sections to maintain law and order. Our goal is to ensure peaceful Holi celebrations,” she said.
Taufiq Ahmed, an advocate representing the Shahi Jama Masjid in the Supreme Court, noted that covering the mosque has been a long-standing practice. “The Holi Chaupai procession passes in front of Jama Masjid. As a precaution, we cover the mosque from the outside to prevent colour from reaching it,” he explained.
District Magistrate Rajender Pensiya confirmed that the district had been divided into six zones and 29 sectors for enhanced surveillance. “We have deployed 27 quick response teams, along with CCTV monitoring, drones, and PAC teams to strengthen security,” he added. Holi celebrations commenced with ‘Rangbhari Ekadashi’ under strict security on Thursday following a peace committee meeting on March 6.
The practice of covering mosques with tarpaulins during Holi has become common in some regions of western UP to prevent communal tensions. In Shahjahanpur, 67 mosques were covered, while two in Bareilly and four in Aligarh, including the Sheesha Wali Mosque at Abdul Karim Square, were similarly shielded.
Holi Chaupai processions passing through mixed-population areas have, at times, led to tensions, prompting authorities to implement preventive measures. Previous incidents of colour being thrown at religious sites have resulted in stricter security protocols. To ensure peaceful celebrations, police have intensified surveillance through CCTV cameras, drones, and quick response teams.
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