Meerut Police’s tough stand on Eid prayers: No roadside gatherings, passports at risk

Meerut Police on Thursday gave strict warnings against 'unauthorised' roadside prayers, stating that the offenders will be taken to court, which could result in their passports being cancelled and driving licences being revoked.

'Documents will be seized'

Ayush Vikram Singh stated notices have been served in connection with the new directive and threatened to cancel the passport and driving license of those who go against it. "Last year, there were some people who disobeyed the directives and prayed on the roads and action was taken against over 80 people. This time around, whoever goes against the rule will be dealt with seriously," he added. "If criminal cases are lodged against the persons, their licenses and passports can be revoked, and getting a new passport would be troublesome without a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the court. These documents are withheld until the persons are cleared by the court," Singh explained.

'Policing towards Orwellian'

The directive has been issued ahead of Eid-Ul-Fitr and last Friday prayers of Ramzan on March 28. Superintendent of Police Ayush Vikram Singh instructed news agency that it should not be done by anybody on the road and Eid prayer should be held at local mosques. In his classic novel "Nineteen Eighty-Four", George Orwell mentions law enforcers or Thought Police with extraordinary powers. Meerut SSP Vipin Tada stated that security forces are working in coordination with the district administration to make the "celebration peaceful."

Meerut Police’s Tough Stand on Eid Prayers

Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel have been deployed, and flag marches are being carried out in "sensitive areas," he added. Uniformed and plainclothes officers will also be deployed at all sensitive points. Strict action will be taken against people attempting to create rumours or instigate unrest using social media. We are keeping a close eye on social media sites, and any attempt to disturb communal harmony will be dealt with firmly.