Introduction
In the wake of recent communal violence that claimed six lives in Haryana’s Nuh district, a Mahapanchayat organized by the Sarv Hindu Samaj has been granted permission to convene, albeit under stringent conditions. Initially planned in Nuh, the gathering was moved to Pondri village near the Palwal-Nuh border, following denial of police permission due to concerns about law and order. The Mahapanchayat aims to discuss the Vishva Hindu Parishad’s (VHP) ‘Brajmandal Dharmik Yatra,’ which was disrupted by an attack last month, subsequently leading to the communal riot.
Lokendra Singh, Palwal Superintendent of Police, outlined the conditions for the gathering, emphasizing that hate speeches and the presence of weapons or flammable objects will not be tolerated. With a limit of 500 attendees, the Mahapanchayat must conclude by 2 pm. Security measures have been heightened to ensure a peaceful event.
The Sarv Hindu Samaj’s gathering seeks to bolster the confidence of Hindus, according to posters circulated on social media. The event will also address demands for the release of individuals arrested in connection with the recent clashes and arson incidents. While the police had denied permission for the Mahapanchayat initially, it is reported that members of Hindu outfits Bajrang Dal and VHP will be present.
Authorities concerned
The previous gathering of the Hindu Samaj Mahapanchayat in Gurugram had been held without police permission and resulted in provocative speeches, including a call to boycott Muslim traders. Authorities were concerned that today’s event could exacerbate tensions and opted to prioritize restoring peace in the area.
Devender Singh, a VHP division minister, expressed hope that the rescheduled yatra would be completed successfully, boosting the morale of Hindu groups. The Gurugram Police issued a statement urging the public to refrain from actions that could incite division or disturb the peace. Amidst growing unrest, farmer unions, Khap panchayats, and religious leaders from Haryana convened a ‘Mahapanchayat’ in Hisar to denounce violence and promote harmony.
Conclusion
While this gathering brought together people from various religious backgrounds, concerns over the situation remain. The authorities continue to focus on maintaining law and order, as tensions persist in the aftermath of the recent violence.
