Hanuman Jayanti celebrations pass off peacefully

New Delhi: Hanuman Jayanti was marked across the city on Thursday by a spirit of bonhomie and festive cheer, piercing through the usual undercurrents of tension. The city exuded a vigilant yet celebratory atmosphere, with sensitive areas such as Jahangirpuri and Uttam Nagar placed under tight security. Additional paramilitary companies were strategically deployed to ensure the celebrations passed off smoothly and peacefully.

In a heartening display of communal harmony, members of the Muslim community in Jahangirpuri showered rose petals along the procession route, exchanged hugs and offered warm wishes, lending a joyous touch to the occasion.

Hundreds of people participated in a nearly 2km-long procession that began after 12pm in Jahangirpuri. Police had granted permission for three separate processions in the area, all of which were carried out under close supervision.

People from all walks of life joined the procession with enthusiasm and fervour, chanting devotional hymns. One of the processions was organised by Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP). Surendra Kumar Gupta, a member of the outfit, said the day symbolises not only faith and devotion, but also victory and self-respect. He recalled that after the violence in Jahangirpuri procession three years ago, the administration had imposed restrictions. However, this year, following positive dialogue, permission was granted for a route spanning 2.5-3km, which he described as “a collective victory for the community”.

Under the overall supervision of Ravindra Yadav, special commissioner of police (law and order), extensive security arrangements were in place, with thousands of police personnel deployed across the district. Additionally, 14 companies of external forces were stationed in the area. Officers were positioned at regular intervals along the route while drones, Vajra vehicles and RAF units closely monitored the procession to ensure no untoward incident occurred.

DCP (Northwest) Aakansha Yadav said all processions concluded safely. Police also showed vigilance in stopping a group of men who wanted to take out a small procession without permission.

A similar celebratory atmosphere was witnessed in Uttam Nagar and Dwarka. Devotees distributed sweets and children dressed as Indian gods and goddesses added a colourful and festive charm to the celebrations. One of the vehicles in the procession carried a photograph of 26-year-old Tarun Butolia, who was allegedly lynched during Holi, and people paid tribute to him.