Eid prayers offered in Uttam Nagar under heavy security
Muslims offered Eid-ul-Fitr prayers in west Delhi’s Uttam Nagar on Saturday under heavy security, with the area witnessing a subdued celebration days after a localised clash left a man dead and triggered tensions.
A video circulating on social media shows two men carrying a bag filled with flower petals and showering them on police and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel, while someone in the background is heard saying, “The cops gave full support.”
Another person can also be heard saying, “They did a fantastic job.”
Meanwhile, police detained around 95 people for raising provocative slogans and trying to disturb law and order.
A heavy deployment of Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel is in place across Hastsal village and nearby areas, with barricades set up at key entry and exit points and strict identity checks being carried out, police said.
Only residents are being allowed access to certain stretches after verification, while the movement of outsiders is restricted. Police teams also conducted regular foot patrols and are monitoring rooftops, narrow lanes and other sensitive pockets through CCTV cameras to prevent any untoward incident.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Dwarka) Kushal Pal Singh said the situation is calm. “The environment here is peaceful. People offered namaz without any disturbance. We have maintained tight security in the area and are continuing routine patrols and picketing,” he said, urging people not to believe rumours on social media.
Despite the heavy security presence, residents said prayers were conducted peacefully, though celebrations were low-key.
Parvez, a resident, said the spirit of communal harmony remained intact.
“We offered namaz peacefully. Our Hindu friends are expected to join us, and we’re looking forward to celebrating together. We are saddened by what happened to Tarun (victim of the March 4 incident); he was like a brother to us. However, the situation on the ground is not as tense as it has been portrayed (on social media). Our neighbours have been very kind, and the police have ensured adequate security,” he said.
