Police thwart attempts by some Hindutva elements to sow discord despite prior written agreement for a peaceful procession
NEW DELHI/BAREILLY — A major controversy unfolded in Khajuria Zulfiqar village of Bareilly on Tuesday during the Ala Hazrat Urs celebrations. The trouble began as Muslim students took out a procession carrying the Chadar, an important religious offering. Although the procession had prior approval and a written agreement between the communities, members of Hindu organisations and others opposed its passage, creating tension in the village.
Local eyewitness, Mohammad Faiz, a resident of Khajuria Zulfiqar, said, “The students were walking peacefully with full consent, but suddenly some people started shouting and protesting without any reason. The police had to intervene immediately to prevent any clash.”
According to sources, representatives from both communities held a meeting a couple of days ago and agreed on a fixed route for the procession, ensuring harmony and preventing misunderstandings. Despite this, opposition arose when the procession moved through the village under police supervision.
Inspector Rakesh Singh, present at the scene, explained, “Some individuals tried to create disturbance, disregarding the prior agreement. We had to act swiftly to maintain peace. Thankfully, no one was hurt, and the procession continued as planned.”
Residents reported that the Hindu oraganisations objected to the procession, alleging it introduced a “new tradition.” However, Muslim community members argue that this was a routine religious observance, integral to the annual Ala Hazrat Urs celebrations.
Fatima Bano, a parent of one of the students, expressed her concern: “Our children were only participating in a peaceful religious procession. It is disappointing that despite agreements, some groups created unnecessary tension.”
This is not the first time such tensions have arisen. In 2023, there was also a dispute over the same procession route, which required police intervention to prevent conflicts. Community leaders now urge mutual respect and understanding to avoid recurrence.
Meanwhile, the protesting Hindu organisations allege that the police used force against them, stating, “We were ready for a peaceful passage, but police lathi-charged our members when we raised objections. Action should be taken against responsible officers.” However, authorities maintain that police acted to protect both communities and ensure the procession continued safely.
In response to the situation, a heavy police deployment remains in the area, and officials continue to monitor developments closely to prevent escalation. Muslim residents of Khajuria Zulfiqar remain committed to celebrating Ala Hazrat Urs peacefully, hoping that respect for religious traditions is maintained by all sections of the village.
Community leader, Maulana Shafiq, highlighted the significance of the event: “Ala Hazrat Urs is a sacred occasion for our community. Peaceful participation is our right, and we are grateful that police ensured safety despite unnecessary opposition.”
The incident underscores ongoing sensitivities around religious processions in multi-community areas and the need for careful policing and respect for established agreements. While tensions were heightened temporarily, the Muslim community successfully completed their religious observance without incident, reflecting the importance of law enforcement vigilance and the right to peaceful religious expression.
