Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh has been placed on high alert ahead of the Alvida Jumma prayers, the last Friday of Ramadan, following reports of anger in the Shia community after the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Authorities have tightened security across several cities to ensure that prayers are held peacefully.
Statewide Security Measures
Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Krishna has ordered increased security in sensitive areas. Police have also been directed to keep strict watch on social media to prevent the spread of rumours or inflammatory posts.
Drone surveillance has been deployed in many sensitive locations. Cities like Bareilly have been placed under “high alert”, with heavy deployment of police, PAC and paramilitary forces.
Special Arrangements in Varanasi
In Varanasi, prayers will be offered in two shifts at major mosques due to the expected large gathering. Strict security arrangements have been made around places like the Gyanvapi area and Latsaraiyan.
Mufti-e-Banaras Abdul Batin Nomani said that the Alvida Jumma prayers will follow traditional practices. Special prayers will also be offered for the country’s peace, progress and prosperity. In addition to mosques, tents have been arranged on rooftops and open spaces to accommodate worshippers.
Police teams also carried out patrols around mosques in the city to ensure security.
Bareilly Under Tight Security
Bareilly has been turned into a virtual fortress for the prayers. Security arrangements are so strict that officials say “not even a bird can fly without notice.”
A flag march was conducted from Kotwali under the leadership of SP City Manush Pareek to review the law and order situation. Police officials said prayers will not be allowed on roads and no new traditions will be permitted during the event.
Heavy Deployment in Meerut and Agra
In Meerut, Alvida Jumma prayers will be offered at around 450 mosques. Police forces, including RAF and RRF, have been deployed in sensitive and highly sensitive areas. Drone monitoring will also be used for surveillance.
In Agra, the administration has issued an alert ahead of the prayers. The main prayer at the Jama Masjid is scheduled to be held at 1:45 pm, with police deployed in surrounding areas to maintain security.
Authorities across the state said their main priority is to ensure that the prayers are conducted peacefully and without any disturbance.