VHP holds procession in Delhi area; forces on alert across States

Amid the fear of fresh violence, right-wing organisations such as the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal started Hanuman Jayanti programmes across Delhi.

The VHP procession at northwest Delhi's Jahangirpuri, which was hit by communal violence during the festival last year, is being regulated in consultation with its organisers.

Paramilitary troops have also been deployed in Jahangirpuri to help the Delhi Police ahead of the Hanuman Jayanti processions. Riot control vehicles have also been stationed in the area.

Jitendra Kumar Meena, DCP North West said, "strategic deployment of forces done for the 'Shobha Yatra'. No untoward incident has occurred during the earlier procession:We are ensuring that it takes place in safe and secure manner."

Four paramilitary groups have been deployed apart from the local police deployment. We are using drones to monitor the situation, he added. The yatra is being allowed near S Block near Jahangirpuri PS and E Block upto Kushal Chowk.

The police have been constantly patrolling the area to ensure that there is no let up in law and order.

The police said that the organisers had sought permission for the Hanuman Jayanti procession in the Jahangirpuri area and the route has been regularised.

After an initial denial, the Delhi police have finally given permission to carry out the Shobha Yatra in Delhi's Jahangirpuri area.

"The procession organisers will follow the approved routes. Around 200-300 people will participate in one procession and around 500 people are expected to take part in another procession," Meena told ANI.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday issued an advisory to all states in preparation for Hanuman Jayanti, asking them to ensure the maintenance of law and order.

At least six states including West Bengal, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar witnessed such violent clashes.

Stone-pelting, sloganeering and arson triggered communal tensions resulting in deaths, destruction, and damage to property.