In a significant step toward avoid communal unrest, the Uttar Pradesh (UP) administration has decided to cover ten mosques in Sambhal during Chaupai’ processions on Friday, March 14. This year’s Holi coincides with a Ramazan ‘Jumma’ (Friday prayers), a rare occurrence happening after sixty years.
Decision Aimed at Ensuring Peaceful Festivities
Sambhal Superintendent of Police (SP) Shrish Chandra addressed the media, stating that the move was undertaken to ensure that both communities could celebrate their respective festivals peacefully and without any disruptions.
“A total of ten mosques have been identified which fall in the proposed route of the ‘Chaupai’ procession. All of them will be covered to prevent any disturbance or tension between the two communities,” he said.
The ‘Chaupai’ processions, a traditional part of Holi celebrations, will follow the conventional route through areas where these mosques are located. Authorities have reiterated that covering mosques along the route has been a long-standing practice aimed at preserving harmony and avoiding any potential issues.
Adjustments to Procession and Prayer Timings
To further ensure smooth celebrations, an agreement has been reached to adjust the timings of the Friday ‘namaaz’ (prayers) and the ‘Chaupai’ processions to prevent any overlap.
“The Friday ‘namaaz’ will take place either before or after the Holi procession. Also, outsiders won’t have permission to enter mosque premises,” added officials.
Local authorities and UP Police have been instructed to maintain strict vigilance throughout the day to prevent any untoward incidents. Additional security measures will be in place to safeguard peace and order.
List of Mosques to be Covered
The ten mosques set to be covered with tarpaulin during Holi celebrations in Sambhal include:
- Shahi Jama Masjid
- Ladania Wali Masjid
- Thaane Wali Masjid
- Ek Raat Masjid
- Gurdwara Road Masjid
- Gol Masjid
- Khajoor Wali Masjid
- Anaar Wali Masjid
- Gol Dukaan Wali Masjid
Peace Meeting Held to Strengthen Understanding
In preparation for the festival, a peace meeting was conducted at the Sambhal police station. Religious leaders from both communities engaged in discussions to establish preventive measures that would ensure a peaceful atmosphere during Holi celebrations and Friday ‘namaaz.’
Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate with the administration in maintaining peace and celebrating the festivals in a spirit of brotherhood and mutual respect. The decision to cover the mosques underscores the administration’s commitment to fostering communal harmony in the region.
