Peaceful Conclusion of Holi Procession and Friday Prayers in Sambhal Under Heightened Security
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On March 14, Sambhal celebrated Holi peacefully alongside Friday prayers, thanks to enhanced security measures. This comes after last year’s tragic riots. Local communities worked together to ensure a harmonious atmosphere during the festivities, reflecting a strong commitment to peace.
Key Takeaways
- Holi celebrations were peaceful in Sambhal.
- Heightened security measures were implemented due to previous riots.
- Over 60 processions took place without incidents.
- Community cooperation contributed to the success of the events.
- Authorities praised the spirit of brotherhood among residents.
Sambhal, March 14 (NationPress) The vibrant festival of Holi is being observed with great zeal and jubilation throughout the nation. The celebrations coincided with Friday prayers, necessitating increased security measures to maintain peace and order in Uttar Pradesh, especially in Sambhal, where a riot occurred last year resulting in the loss of four lives.
The Holi festivities in Sambhal have proceeded without incident, with planned processions celebrated across the city seamlessly.
Simultaneously, namaz was conducted in various mosques throughout the area. At 2:30 p.m., congregants gathered at the Shahi Jama Masjid to perform prayers on the second Friday of Ramzan.
A significant Holi procession, featuring approximately 3,000 participants, passed near the mosque. To ensure law and order, there was a substantial police presence across the city.
Police Officer Anuj Chaudhary expressed contentment with the orderly proceedings.
"The residents have celebrated Holi in a spirit of harmony in Sambhal. There have been no reports of disturbances. Worshippers performed namaz without complications," he stated.
"Local communities proactively covered mosques. I appreciate Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for ensuring law and order," he added.
Sambhal Superintendent of Police Krishna Kumar Bishnoi emphasized the cooperative atmosphere in the area.
"All activities are proceeding peacefully and with camaraderie. The community here is nurturing brotherhood. The diligent efforts of the Sambhal police have been fruitful," he remarked.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra reported that 68 Holi processions occurred in Sambhal, including two that traversed mixed-population areas.
"Thanks to the collaborative efforts of our administration and security personnel, everything unfolded smoothly," she noted.
Sambhal DM Rajender Pensiya stated, "The populace celebrated Holi with traditional enthusiasm. Over 60 processions were organized in the city under strict security measures."
Given the overlap of Holi festivities and Friday prayers, authorities had issued a statewide alert, with specific arrangements made in Sambhal to avert any incidents. A robust police presence and community collaboration ensured that both Holi celebrations and Ramzan prayers were conducted without disruption.
The peaceful observance of the festivities is particularly noteworthy in light of previous tensions in Sambhal following communal riots on November 24 of the previous year, which were instigated by an examination of a Mughal-era mosque by the Archaeological Survey of India.
