Prohibition of 'Neja Mela' in Sambhal: Mixed Reactions from Locals

Sambhal, March 18 (NationPress) The Uttar Pradesh authorities have denied permission for the annual 'Neja Mela' in Sambhal, raising concerns about its historical background and receiving objections from various community members.

As part of this prohibition, the police on Tuesday declined requests to erect the traditional green flag at the mela grounds.

The 'Neja Mela', which commemorates Syed Salar Masud Ghazi, typically kicks off with the installation of a 30-foot pole adorned with a green flag. However, officials have now deemed this observance inappropriate, arguing that it honors figures associated with invasions and devastation.

Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Shrish Chandra defended the decision, stating, "This is a misguided tradition, and it is not appropriate to continue such practices. The public has been informed that adhering to these customs does not aid development."

While some community members expressed sadness over the cancellation, others were in favor of the decision.

Wasim, a local resident, commented, "It is the government's decision. They have prohibited the installation of the flag. This mela has taken place for centuries, and we lack clarity on the Somnath Temple incident."

Another resident, Shahzad Alam, remarked, "The administration has its reasons for this action, or the members of the Neja Committee could clarify. I have heard that the shield is not being set up today."

"I have witnessed this fair for years, but I was unaware of any link between the Neja Mela and the destruction of the Somnath Temple. This mela is celebrated because Syed Salar Masud triumphed over Prithviraj Chauhan," he added.

Conversely, some locals embraced the ban. Sanjay, a resident, stated, "This decision is correct and should have been made earlier. Mahmud Ghaznavi ravaged our culture, and this mela honors Masud Ghazi, who plundered Sambhal and Bahraich. It is beneficial that such customs are being abolished."

Echoing this sentiment, Ashok Kumar stated, "The Neja Mela was halted after Covid. Masud Ghazi was a thief and a murderer who deceitfully killed Prithviraj Chauhan's son. It is good that this event has been terminated."

In anticipation of possible unrest, security measures have been intensified in the area. Police units have been stationed at the location where the Neja Mela shield was traditionally placed, and CCTV cameras are actively monitoring sensitive sites.

ASP Shrish Chandra confirmed that law and order remain intact. "We are vigilantly observing social media for any misinformation. Strict measures will be imposed on anyone attempting to disrupt peace," he cautioned.

The administration reiterated that Syed Salar Masud Ghazi, a relative of Mahmud Ghaznavi, was implicated in invasions and temple desecrations, including the looting of the Somnath Temple.

"Commemorating him is not suitable. This decision has been made with the safety of law and order in mind," ASP Chandra added.

The police also warned event organizers against any attempts to continue with the fair and emphasized that legal action would be taken against those disseminating false information.