New Delhi, August 27, 2023: Security measures have been significantly bolstered in Haryana’s Nuh and surrounding regions following the Sarv Jatiya Hindu Mahapanchayat’s announcement of a ‘shobha yatra’ on Monday, despite the denial of permission for the procession by authorities.
Deployments of security personnel, including paramilitary forces, have been intensified to ensure strict vigilance. The reinforcement includes tightened security at inter-state and inter-district borders.
Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar emphasized that permission had not been granted for the procession due to concerns stemming from the recent Nuh violence. He suggested an alternative of visiting temples for ‘jalabhishek’, highlighting the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order. August 28 marks the last Monday of the holy month of Shravan.
The decision to deny permission was influenced by the G20 Sherpa Group’s scheduled meeting in Nuh from September 3 to 7 and the necessity to uphold order following the July 31 violence. The government also suspended mobile internet services from August 26 to 28.
Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Mamta Singh assured that precautions have been taken to avert any untoward incidents. A substantial police presence has been established, with 1,900 Haryana Police personnel and 24 paramilitary force companies deployed. Entry points to Nuh have been sealed, and the road to the Malhar temple closed.
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) announced its intention to conduct the procession despite permission denial, asserting that religious events do not require official sanction.
As a precautionary measure, educational institutions and banks will be closed, mobile internet and bulk SMS services suspended, and prohibitory orders implemented until Monday under Section 144 of the CrPC, which prohibits the assembly of four or more people in an area.
