Hanuman Jayanti: Processions in Uttam Nagar, Jahangirpuri; Delhi Police on high alert

The Delhi Police is on high alert as several Hindu organisations are set to hold processions on Thursday in Uttam Nagar and Jahangirpuri to celebrate Hanuman Jayanti.

Heavy security forces have been deployed in both areas to maintain law and order, according to a senior police officer.

In Uttam Nagar, the heightened arrangements come in the backdrop of the March 4 murder of a 26-year-old man in the area following a clash between his family and their neighbours in JJ Colony during Holi celebrations.

The incident triggered tensions in the area, with an angry mob vandalising vehicles and setting some on fire, resulting in a week-long heavy police deployment.

The violence broke out after water from a balloon thrown by a girl from Tarun’s family splashed on a woman from the neighbouring household. Sixteen people, including two minors, have been arrested and apprehended so far.

Earlier, the Delhi Police also carried out an intensive flag march and bike patrolling exercise across the northwest district ahead of Hanuman Jayanti, an officer said.

Officials added that an Aman Committee meeting was also held in Jahangirpuri to ensure communal harmony ahead of the festival, in view of the 2022 violence in the area during a Hanuman Jayanti procession, when several people, including police personnel, were injured in stone-pelting and arson incidents.

“Surveillance has been enhanced through CCTV cameras, drones and local intelligence inputs. Barricades have been placed at key points, and area dominance exercises and flag marches are being carried out to instil confidence among residents,” police said.

The operation, which covered key areas of the district, with officers maintaining a strong presence on major roads and sensitive pockets, was aimed at strengthening security arrangements and boosting public confidence in the run-up to the festival.