Heavy security blanket for Nuh Jalabhishek Yatra today

Two years after the deadly riots in Nuh district that claimed six lives and tore the communal fabric of the region, the Jalabhishek Yatra is set to return in its full form tomorrow. The district administration has geared up with massive security arrangements, banning weapons, monitoring social media and restricting the participation of individuals linked to the 2023 violence. The district administration has ensured heavy police deployment and drone surveillance for the peaceful conduct of yatra.

Restrictions imposed

• No sale of non-vegetarian food on July 14

• Internet services suspended from 9 pm, July 13 to 9 pm, July 14

• Over 100 accused in 2023 riots barred from participating

• Notorious cow vigilante Bittu Bajrangi denied permission to attend

• Drone surveillance of entire route

• All schools in Nuh closed on July 14

• Ban on sale of petrol and diesel in bottles

• Traffic diversions across the district

• 22 units of police and paramilitary deployed

• No arms or ammunition allowed

According to police sources, individuals posting communally provocative or inciting content on social media have been detained. Prominent cow vigilante Bittu Bajrangi has been denied permission to attend the yatra, with officials stating that despite warnings, he continued to share “volatile” content online. His social media accounts have also been suspended.

“We are all set for the yatra and it will be conducted peacefully. We have taken all security measures and anybody trying to disrupt the harmony will be dealt with seriously. We are focusing not just on security but also convenience. The traffic diversions are in place and heavy vehicles will not be allowed on the route,” said Deputy Commissioner Vishram Meena.

“We have prohibited participation of all suspected to impact the safety of the procession. The route has been finalised and clear instructions have been issued to participants. Nobody will be allowed to carry swords, sticks or any weapons. The area is already under drone surveillance,” said the spokesperson of Nuh Police.

The Jalabhishek Yatra is conducted every year on the first Monday of saawan, the holy month in the Hindu calendar. Devotees travel to ancient Shiva temples in Nuh, especially the one at Nalhar, to offer Ganga water.

Over the years, the yatra has become a rallying event for right-wing outfits and cow vigilante groups, with earlier editions marked by processions involving swords and provocative slogans. In 2023, tensions flared into full-blown violence when mobs attacked the yatra, setting vehicles ablaze, firing gunshots and pelting stones. Several police stations and posts were targeted. It was the first major communal riot in Mewat’s history, leading to deep social wounds.

While a muted version of the yatra was held in 2024, this is the first year it is being resumed in full scale, prompting the authorities to take no chances with law and order.

Haryana Tribune