Delhi Police on alert, issues traffic advisory as VHP takes out ‘protest’ rallies in the capital

The Delhi police have tightened security and issued a traffice advisory in the wake of ‘protests’ organised by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad across multiple places in the national capital against a communal clash that broke out on Monday evening in Haryana’s Nuh district.

As of now, five people have lost their lives in the violence that started on Monday, with four casualties occurring in Nuh during the VHP procession disruption and one Naib Imam killed at a mosque in Gurugram.

A senior police officer stated that the Delhi Police closely monitors incidents in neighboring states and other parts of the country that could have repercussions in the national capital. The force is fully prepared to address any potential situation arising from such incidents in nearby regions.

Another officer mentioned that the police are conducting meetings with peace committees, urging them to maintain peace in their respective areas. Additionally, the police are closely monitoring social media activities for any signs of unrest.

To enhance security, the police have increased their presence in areas with mixed populations and sensitive locations. They have also employed drones for surveillance to ensure the safety and harmony of North Delhi.

Foot patrolling is being conducted in various areas, and senior police officers are actively engaging with the local community. Bordering areas are being secured with barricades, and thorough checks are being carried out.

Recently, a mob set fire to an eatery and vandalized shops in Gurugram’s Badshahpur, following the previous day’s attack on a VHP procession in neighboring Nuh district. The mob targeted shops belonging to a specific community and chanted slogans in front of a mosque. In response, Gurugram Police promptly reached the spot, although some suspects managed to escape.

Some of the protest sites include — Karol Bagh, Patel Nagar, Mayur Vihar, Lajpat Nagar, Mukherjee Nagar, Moti Nagar, Najafgarh, Tilak Nagar, Narela, Nangloi and Ambedkar Nagar. Some of the areas are also close to the Haryana border.

The Delhi Traffic Police in an advisory said that due to protests at the red light of Nirman Vihar metro station, Vikas Marg was expected to be completely blocked. The advisory further said, “Commuters coming from Ghaziabad or by Delhi-Meerut E-way & going towards ITO to take NH-24. Those coming from Vivek Vihar to take Nala Road for ITO.”

(With PTI inputs)