Haryana Police has said no weapons will be allowed amid reports of several Hindu right-wing groups announcing that they will resume the religious yatra in recently communal violence-hit Nuh district.
The police has also said that no gatherings will not be allowed in “sensitive” areas.
Haryana’s Nuh was marred by communal clashes on July 31 this year.
The violence had left six people dead, including the deputy imam (cleric) of a mosque.
The Tribune report quoting Nuh SP Narender Bijarnia said that he is yet to receive requests for permission for such an event.
“I will, however, make it clear even if the yatra is allowed, we will not let it disrupt peace in the district. We will not let the procession pass through sensitive areas or allow carrying of arms. The number of participants too will be restricted. Those making communal or instigating speeches ahead of the yatra will be dealt with sternly. Police will be there to ensure law and order,” Bijarnia was quoted as having said in the report.
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The Tribune also quoted sources as saying the authorities were discussing the possibility of limiting participation in such an event to 100 people.
Bijarnia became the police chief recently, after replacing Varun Singla.
Singla had been on leave when the violence broke out and was later transferred.
Earlier, this week during a ‘mahapanchayat’ in Haryana’s Palwal earlier this week, Hindu right groups had said they would “resume” the yatra on August 28.
The Indian Express report said several speakers at this event challenged the administration “to stop them” from holding the yatra, demanding lenient gun licences for “self-defence”.
One speaker even said the yatris should buy rifles, as “they shoot farther”, the report mentioned.
