With the festival of Holi approaching, the Uttar Pradesh Police has issued a set of directives to maintain law and order, ensuring that celebrations are conducted in a peaceful and orderly manner. The police have strictly prohibited the introduction of any new customs or traditions during the festivities, emphasizing that all celebrations must align with existing practices that have been followed for years.
Ensuring Law and Order: Preventing Unrest During Holi
In an official order released on Wednesday, the UP Police Department directed all law enforcement personnel to take proactive measures against individuals or groups that could disrupt peace. Authorities have been asked to identify potential troublemakers in advance and take preventive action against them.
“A thorough review of past years’ Holi-related disputes and incidents has been conducted. Based on this analysis, preventive measures will be implemented to ensure that similar issues do not arise this year,” the order stated.
The police have further urged communities to celebrate Holi within traditional boundaries, discouraging any unwarranted deviations that might lead to conflicts or disturbances.
Tightened Security Measures for Holi Festivities
With the festival known for its large gatherings, processions, and high-energy celebrations, authorities have ramped up security to prevent any unruly incidents. Extensive measures have been put in place across various districts, ensuring that public safety remains a top priority.
Providing details of the security arrangements in Sambhal, District Magistrate (DM) Rajendra Pensia outlined a comprehensive plan to maintain law and order during the celebrations.
“A total of 16 fairs will take place in Sambhal. We have conducted peace committee meetings across every neighborhood and village, with two major district-level meetings as well,” he stated.
The security blueprint for the festival includes:
- Formation of 27 quick response teams to address any emergencies swiftly.
- The division of the district into six security zones and 29 sectors, with police officers and magistrates assigned to each.
- Deployment of Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) battalions to provide a three-tier security system similar to previous years.
- Installation of 250 CCTV cameras across critical locations, supplemented by 100-150 additional surveillance cameras arranged by the municipal authorities.
- Use of drone surveillance for aerial monitoring, which has already been conducted once and will be repeated to ensure comprehensive security coverage.
- Conducting flag marches led by senior police officials, including the Deputy Inspector General (DIG), to demonstrate a strong security presence.
Rangbhari Ekadashi Kicks Off Holi Festivities Amid Security Arrangements
The Holi celebrations in Sambhal officially commenced on March 4 with the observance of Rangbhari Ekadashi, a significant occasion that marks the beginning of Holi festivities. This festival, observed five days before Holi, was celebrated under tight security surveillance, ensuring that no untoward incidents occurred.
In preparation for the main festival on March 14, a peace committee meeting was convened at the Sambhal Kotwali police station on March 6. The meeting involved discussions with community leaders and local authorities, focusing on strategies to maintain harmony between different communities during the overlapping observances of Holi and Friday prayers during Ramzan.
Advisory for Muslim Community Amid Friday Prayers and Holi Celebrations
With March 14 marking both Holi and the Friday prayers during the holy month of Ramzan, the administration has issued a special advisory to prevent any religious conflicts.
Sambhal Circle Officer (CO) Anuj Kumar Chaudhary urged members of the Muslim community who might be uncomfortable with the festival’s colors to remain indoors during celebrations to avoid unnecessary confrontations.
“Holi is an annual festival, whereas there are 52 Jummas (Friday prayers) in a year. We have respectfully requested those who may not wish to participate in Holi celebrations to stay indoors,” Chaudhary stated.
The advisory aims to prevent friction between communities and encourage mutual respect during the simultaneous observance of two significant religious events.
Final Preparations for Holi: A Call for Peaceful Celebrations
As the festival of colors approaches, law enforcement agencies across Uttar Pradesh are making last-minute preparations to ensure a smooth and secure celebration for all. Officials have urged the public to cooperate with security personnel, follow traditional practices, and avoid any activities that could lead to unrest or communal tension.
The administration remains vigilant, with police forces on high alert, ready to address any situation swiftly and efficiently. With these security measures in place, authorities hope to facilitate a joyful and incident-free Holi for everyone.