Muslims in West Delhi’s Uttam Nagar offered Eid-ul-Fitr prayers under tight security on Saturday, with authorities maintaining a high alert following recent communal tensions in the area. The celebrations were largely subdued, particularly in Hastsal village and nearby localities, where a previous clash had heightened concerns about public safety and law and order during the festival.
A significant deployment of Delhi Police personnel, along with paramilitary forces, was put in place across sensitive pockets. Barricades were erected at key entry and exit points, and strict identity verification measures were enforced. Officials confirmed that only residents were being allowed into certain areas after proper checks, while the movement of outsiders was restricted as a precautionary step.
Security teams conducted continuous foot patrols and closely monitored rooftops, narrow lanes, and other vulnerable locations. Surveillance was further strengthened through CCTV cameras to ensure real-time monitoring and rapid response to any potential disturbances. Authorities emphasised that these measures were necessary to prevent any untoward incidents and maintain peace during the festival.
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Despite the heavy security presence, local residents began offering prayers, though celebrations remained low-key compared to previous years. A senior police official stated that additional forces were kept on standby and that the situation was being closely monitored to ensure that the festival concluded peacefully without any disruptions.
The heightened security follows a violent incident on Holi earlier this month, when a 26-year-old man named Tarun died after being injured in a clash between two neighbouring families in JJ Colony. The altercation reportedly began after a water balloon accidentally struck a woman, escalating into violence and later triggering protests in the area.
Police have since arrested multiple individuals in connection with the incident and are also keeping a close watch on social media platforms to curb rumours and prevent the spread of inflammatory content. Officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining communal harmony and urged residents to cooperate with security measures during the festive period.
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