150 Shiv Sainiks held in Varanasi

Varanasi, Aug 7 (UNI) At least 150 Shiv Sena activists, on way to the highly sensitive Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanwapi complex to perform the 'Jalabhishek' of Shringar Gauri, were arrested from three separate places for shouting slogans here today.

Additional Police Superintendent (ASP) Nachiketa Jha said here 150 Sainiks were held from Luxa, Sarnath and Girjaghar crossing. The maximum 100 Shiv Sainiks, including district president Gulshan Kapoor, were arrested from Girjaghar crossing, Mr Jha added.

Meanwhile, Sena's divisional president Ajay Chaubey, contrary to police statements, claimed at least 500 saffron activists were arrested to prevent them from proceeding to the Kashi Vishwanath-Gyanwapi complex.

The arrest was made in pursuance with an official directive to ensure no procession shouting slogans is permitted to enter the complex, besides preventing the start of any new traditions on the complex.

Meanwhile, countless devouts thronged various Lord Shiv temples of the religious city, to offer prayers on the last Monday of the holy 'shrawan' month.

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