Over 30 Hindu volunteers are ready to set an example of communal amity in riot-hit Delhi’s Trilokpuri by leading Muharram processions on November 4, while the Delhi Police have deputed extra force to avoid any fresh violence.
The Hindu volunteers will be divided among the five Muharram processions that will set out from different blocks of the East Delhi locality where a communal violence over Diwali celebrations October 23 left 60 people, including policemen, injured.
Joint Commissioner of Police Sanjay Beniwal said, “Five Muharram processions may possibly set out from Block 27 and 37 of Trilokpuri around 2 pm tomorrow (Tuesday). All the processions will be led by the Hindu volunteers. The Hindu volunteers are also ready to manage ‘Chhabi’, a water stall.”
He said: “The number of people participating in the processions is not clear. They may be between 400 and 1,000.”
Muslims observe Muharram to mourn the death of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Mohammad in the battle of Karbala. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police Pushpendra Kumar said, “The Muharram procession will terminate at the symbolic Karbala in Trilokpuri’s Kotla.”
“The possibility of any fresh clash is minimal as both the communities are ready to maintain harmony. They have also assured the authorities to keep a tab on any suspicious activity and immediately inform police. However, six additional companies of police, RAF and CRPF have been posted in Trilokpuri for precautionary measures,”Kumar further added.
He said: “We have got a list of Hindu volunteers who will ensure that the processions are held peacefully.” The measures include restriction on carrying sharp-edged blades, chains and whips, which are traditionally used by the devouts to inflict physical pain on themselves as part of mourning.