No Procession On Roads, UP Government Issues Guidelines Before Upcoming Festivals

The Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday (19 April) issued directions that no religious events will be held on roads in view of the upcoming Eid, Akshaya Tritiya and Parshuram Jayanti, as per reports.

Principal Secretary (Home) Sanjay Prasad, Director General of Police (DGP) R K Vishwakarma, and other senior officials held a review meeting with all field officials posted in the state through video conferencing and issued necessary guidelines, an official release said.

The press release also said that no religious procession or any other procession should be carried out without due permission. It further stated that permission should only be given to processions that are traditional, and unnecessary permissions should not be given for new events.

“The safety of every citizen is the primary responsibility of all of us. Eid, Akshaya Tritiya, and Parshuram Jayanti are likely to be held on the same day in April 22. In view of the present environment, the police will have to be extra careful,” Prasad said.

Officials were also instructed to remain vigilant of social media and refute any fake news or rumours that may cause harm to the peaceful atmosphere in the state.

DGP Vishwakarma reviewed preparations made for the upcoming festivals by officers at the zone, range, and district levels and instructed the police force to continuously patrol congested areas.

“Deal sternly with those issuing mischievous statements. Strict action should be taken against the chaotic elements that try to cause harm to the peaceful atmosphere in the state,” Prasad added.

The guidelines are similar to the ones issued last year.

Recently, incidents of violence were reported in Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal during the Ram Navami processions. The killings of Atiq Ahmed and Ashraf Ahmed also led to religious slogans being raised by some, which has turned the atmosphere tense in the state.