High alert across states as Holi, Ramadan friday overlap; Mosques shielded with tarpaulins

For the first time in 64 years, the celebration of Holi and Friday prayers during Ramadan will fall on the same day, which has injected an air of increased vigilance in India. While the celebration of Holi is one that is about colors and brotherhood, inflammatory speech has raised fears in some areas of the country. Safeguards were made to maintain peace and order by deploying police to several states.

To preclude any potential tension, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh have resorted to stringent security arrangements. In Uttar Pradesh, the Yogi government has already taken pro-active steps by covering some mosques with tarpaulins in order to preclude any disturbance. 67 mosques in Shahjahanpur, 10 mosques in Sambhal, and 5 mosques in Bareilly have reportedly been shrouded as a precaution. Additionally, officials in 14 Uttar Pradesh districts have altered Friday prayer time to avoid confrontation with Holi celebrations.

Delhi and other states on high alert

The Delhi Police also have added security. More than 25,000 police officers, along with paramilitary staff, have been deployed all around the capital to ensure law and order. In Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, officials have requested the Muslim community to cover mosques with plastic sheets if Holi colors are a nuisance. Similarly, in Chhattisgarh, the timing of Friday prayers has been modified so as not to disturb anything.

Precautionary measures in other regions

Security measures extend beyond North India. Friday prayer hours have been changed in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. It goes side by side with Hyderabad, where harsh action has been taken against the coercive application of colors on individuals in public places. The Hyderabad police have issued a notice prohibiting such activities to provide a peaceful environment.

High alert in Prayagraj

In Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, the law and order forces are on their toes so that there will be no kind of confrontation possible. The administration is still watching the situation carefully and ensuring that both religious festivities can be held peacefully without any mishap.

As Holi and Friday during Ramadan have occurred on the same date, the government is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that there is no untoward incident. Emphasis is being placed on the upkeep of peace and harmony to promote communal peace all over the country.