Haryana Alert: Nuh Shobha Yatra, Tensions Rise
In an unsettling turn of events, the state of Haryana finds itself on high alert, necessitating heavy security measures and disruptions to daily life. The source of this turmoil is a proposed ‘Shobha Yatra‘ by the Sarv Jatiya Hindu Mahapanchayat in the Nuh district, even after Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar denied permission for the procession. The district had already been grappling with tensions from communal clashes the previous month.
To prevent any untoward incidents, the district administration has enforced Section 144, urging the public to refrain from unnecessary movement in Nuh. Consequently, all educational institutions, including schools and colleges, as well as banks within the district, will remain closed. This decision was affirmed by Nuh's sub-divisional magistrate, Ashwini Kumar.
The situation escalated after the Sarv Jatiya Hindu Mahapanchayat declared its intention to resume the Brij Mandal Shobha Yatra in Nuh on August 28, which was disrupted due to violence in July. Despite Chief Minister Khattar's refusal to grant permission due to concerns about law and order, the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) vowed to conduct the Braj Mandal Shobha Yatra peacefully. VHP leader Alok Kumar asserted that there would be no issues related to law and order.
As security preparations intensify, a substantial police presence has been deployed in Nuh. Approximately 1,900 Haryana Police personnel, along with 24 paramilitary forces, have been stationed across the district. Entry points to the district have been sealed, and access to the Malhar temple has been restricted. However, normal traffic flow will continue on the KMP Expressway and the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. In light of these measures, mobile internet services have been temporarily suspended from August 26 to August 28.
In an effort to manage the situation, authorities have convened meetings with peace committees and senior officers from bordering states, including Punjab, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chandigarh. This collaborative approach aims to effectively address any potential complications that may arise during this period.
The tension dates back to July 31 when communal violence erupted in Nuh district during a religious procession organized by the VHP. The procession was met with aggression, leading to tragic consequences, including six fatalities, including two home guards and a cleric. These clashes had a ripple effect, spreading to Gurugram, where sporadic incidents of violence were reported.
The initial spark for these confrontations was reportedly ignited by Monu Manesar, a Bajrang Dal activist known for his involvement in the lynching of two Muslim men. Monu Manesar and his associates allegedly circulated an objectionable video in the days leading up to the procession.
As Haryana braces itself for the upcoming events, authorities are focused on maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of citizens. The situation serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required to uphold both religious freedoms and public security.
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