10 Mosques to Be Covered During Holi Procession – Sambhal’s Jama Masjid on The List

Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh: Authorities in Sambhal have decided to cover 10 mosques, including the historic Jama Masjid, with plastic sheets and tarpaulins ahead of a Holi procession scheduled for March 14. This year, the festival overlaps with Friday prayers during the holy month of Ramzan, prompting officials to implement measures aimed at ensuring a peaceful observance of both occasions. According to police officials, the decision was made to prevent any disruptions and maintain communal harmony.

Security Measures in Place

ASP Shrishchandra stated that, following discussions and agreements between both communities, religious sites along the designated Holi procession route would be covered. "We have taken this step in consultation with all stakeholders to ensure that both religious events proceed smoothly," he said.

Sambhal Sub-Divisional Magistrate Vandna Mishra confirmed that cops have taken preventive measures, including the detention of 1,015 individuals to avert any potential unrest.

“Lekhpals have been assigned to various mosques in the district. Sambhal has been divided into multiple sectors for better management. Our teams are fully prepared to ensure that Holi celebrations remain peaceful,” she told news agency ANI.

Controversial Remarks Spark Outrage

The preparations for Holi have been accompanied by controversy, with remarks from certain officials and politicians drawing criticism. 

Earlier this week, senior police officer Anuj Kumar Chaudhary stirred debate after "advising" Muslims to stay indoors during Holi, stressing that the festival is celebrated only once a year.

Adding to the controversy, BJP leader Raghuraj Singh made headlines on Tuesday by suggesting that Muslim men should wear tarpaulin-made hijabs to avoid disturbances during Holi celebrations. His statement sparked strong reactions, with many calling it insensitive and inflammatory.

With heightened security and political tensions simmering, authorities in Sambhal are on high alert to ensure a peaceful and incident-free Holi celebration.

Tensions in Sambhal

The security measures come against the backdrop of rising tensions in Sambhal since November last year when a court-ordered survey of the Jama Masjid was conducted. The survey was based on claims that the mosque was built over the ruins of a Hindu temple. The situation escalated into violent protests, resulting in the deaths of five people and injuries to over 20 police personnel.