Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh: The government of Uttar Pradesh has decided to cover about ten mosques in Sambhal District on March 14-on Holi. In this year, after sixty years, the festival curry, Holi becomes coincident with Ramzan Jumma prayers as both will occur on the same day.
The decision was made by local authorities, such as Sambhal's Superintendent of Police (SP), Shrish Chandra, who briefed the media regarding the administration's efforts to ensure a smooth celebration for both communities. Though both the festivals are celebrated on such a wide scale, lively public events most often accompany these festivities. Authorities have special preparations to avoid any likely tension.
The ten mosques in Sambhal will be covered; all are located on the time-honored pathway of the 'Chaupai'-this is the name given to the processional custom that takes place during Holi's festivities.
Among the mosques to be covered are prominent such as Shahi Jama Masjid, Ladania Wali Masjid, Thaane Wali Masjid, and among others. The arrangements would work so that no outside disruptive activities would be possible, as pointed out by the authorities; this practice has been followed through the years towards creating an environment free of conflict between the two religious communities.
At the same time, the Friday 'namaaz' (prayers) will either take place before or after the Holi procession, hence preventing disturbance of either event. These were also discussed concerning any shifts that would be made in the schedule of Friday prayers or Holi processions. In addition, only locals would be allowed to access the mosques and restrict entry to outsiders to avoid complications.
Parallel to this was a peace meeting organized at the Sambhal police station, where religious leaders from the Hindu community and the Muslim community came together to ensure that both festivals can be celebrated as a brotherhood without any adverse incident.
The proactive approach forms part of the wider strategy by the UP government on across-the-board mobilization toward ensuring peace during delicate periods, which would include the erection of more security installations throughout the district. The local police and administrative officials will closely monitor the situation while maintaining a strict watch to avoid any untoward situations.
Covering and changing their schedule are reflections of the long cooperation done during these coinciding festivals-building up a union of peaceful coexistence amongst the people of Sambhal.
[ Source Credit: The Hindu ]
