Situation improves in violence-hit Trilokpuri

, Oct 29: The situation continued to improve in violence-hit Trilokpuri area in East

today as the police relaxed prohibitory orders for six hours--the longest period since it was imposed on Saturday--enabling locals to venture out, buy essential commodities and also offer Chhath puja.

In a confidence-building measure by the police, prohibitory orders were relaxed for the entire day for those celebrating Chhath. The police had made special arrangements for Chhath worshippers and adequate number of women police personnel were deployed on the streets to instill a sense confidence among the people to step out of their houses with women and children. Around 250 devotees gathered near two parks in Block 35 and 36 to offer Chhath Puja.

"The situation was very good today. We relaxed prohibitory orders from 12 noon to 6 PM. Maintaining peace is our priority and forces will still remain deployed," said Joint Commissioner of Police (Eastern) Sanjay Beniwal. With Chhath passing peacefully, the police are now gearing up for Muharram procession.

Teams have been deployed to note the details of the people who are going to participate and they are also being asked to tell so as to how they are going to observe it so that adequate arrangements can be made. "Once we have the details, it will be easier for us to make security arrangements like we did for Chhath today," said a police official.

Meanwhile, Delhi Police Commissioner B S Bassi dismissed allegations that there were lapses on part of his force and claimed that Delhi Police was absolutely alert and, therefore the incidents were quickly contained.

Asked whether there was any political design behind the clashes, Bassi said, "During our investigation, we are going to look into each and every factor. I would not like to enter into such a discussion at this juncture unless we have concluded our inquiries." On being further prodded whether the clashes were orchestrated or they were sudden, Bassi said, "Unless I complete my inquiry I will not be able to comment on it."

PTI