Trouble-torn Trilokpuri was slowly returning to normalcy as police relaxed the prohibitory orders for six hours on Wednesday. The prohibitory orders were relaxed for six hours, exclusively for the Chhath devotees. People came out in the open to observe Chhath. The Delhi Police, however, is still profiling the troublemakers and those who will participate in Muharram to ensure that the mourning of Shias concludes peacefully.
The prohibitory orders under Section 144 were relaxed from 12 pm to 6 pm. Around 250 Chhath devotees, all decked up with their minimum preparations seemed rather happy to be out of home on the occasion. Initially the devotees felt scared to come out but the police force, including women officers, guarded them throughout the route.
“The situation is improving each day. No violence has been reported from any block. Forces have been deployed round-the-clock,” said Joint Commissioner of Police (Eastern Range) Sanjay Beniwal. The relaxation saw people coming out and opening their shops. Fear was quite apparent but police forces deployed at each intersection helped them carry out their work peacefully. Shops opened for a longer period of time and some of the locals were also seen heading for work.
Police officers are now making arrangements to restore peace in the area. Senior officials camping in the area are conducting constant meetings with people of various religious groups to ensure that everyone feels comfortable. Residents claimed that Mata ki Chowki — which started the riot-like situation — has to be carried out for the next two days.
Meanwhile, the members of the minority community claimed that their only problem is the increase in garbage and loud volume of the bhajans during their morning prayers (Azaan). The members of the minority commission also visited the venue of Mata ki Chowki and stated that it must be removed by Friday to normalise the situation. The police officers are now on their toes for the religious ceremony to be carried out peacefully over the next two days.
When asked whether there was any political design behind the clashes, Bassi said, “During our investigation, we are going to look into each and every factor. I would not like to enter into such a discussion at this juncture unless we have concluded our inquiries.”
On being further prodded whether the clashes were orchestrated or a sudden spurt of violence, Bassi said, “Unless I complete my enquiry I will not be able to comment on it.” Bassi also dismissed that there was any lapse on part of his force and claimed that the Delhi Police was absolutely alert that is why when the incident occurred they were quickly contained.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Police has also jotted down names of people who will observe Muharram and will be visiting the graves. “This has been done to make sure that the people in the locality are not scared and Muharram is observed peacefully. Special deployment and route will be designated for them said a police officer.