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INDIA

Tensions flare in Uttar Pradesh as Hindutva group stops Eid Milad procession

By News Desk

September 16, 2024

Tensions rose in the Baradari area of Bareilly district when a Hindutva group objected to Eid Milad un Nabi procession in Uttar Pradesh.

Members of the Hindutva group blocked the path of Muslim processions, sitting in the middle of the road and raising slogans opposing the event.

The group alleged that during a previous Kanwar Yatra, the Muslim community had disrupted their religious procession, vowing now to prevent the Anjuman processions from passing.

In response, members of the Muslim community also raised counter-slogans, escalating the situation. The standoff occurred in Jogi Nawada, where district police administration officials quickly arrived at the scene.

Authorities, including senior police officers, are working to calm the situation, lifting Hindu women who were blocking the streets and urging the Hindu side to disperse.

The Baradari area has seen similar tensions in the past. Last year, a dispute arose during the Eid Milad un Nabi procession when the Hindu community opposed the Anjumans taking a non-traditional route.

The police successfully defused the situation then with the rapid deployment of security forces, including personnel from the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC).

This year, the situation comes amid new guidelines issued by the Yogi government. The government has placed strict rules on Milad processions, including bans on non-traditional routes, the display of weapons, and hooliganism.

Security measures such as surveillance via CCTV and drones have also been implemented to prevent any untoward incidents.

The police continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure that peace prevails in the area.