Police to act tough if VHP changes rally route

VADODARA: Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) activists, who have planned to take out an elaborate rally in Godhra on Monday, may face resistance from police. The cops are on their toes as VHP leaders have decided to take the rally through a longer route. They have permission for a shorter route through which the party holds rally every year on February 27 to mark the anniversary of Sabarmati Express train carnage.VHP's decision to take the longer route has created controversy, but the cops said that they will take action if required. The rally will be attended by VHP international working president Praveen Togadiya. "VHP organizes rally every year and the route is also pre-decided. We have given permission to VHP to hold rally on the same route. If its leaders try to take another or longer route we will take necessary action," said B N Ninama, in-charge deputy superintendent of police (DSP), Godhra.
VHP has been holding the rally and a programme since 2002. Its route has been from Church crossroads to railway yard where the S6 coach is kept. VHP had this year sought permission to take a longer route from Church crossroads to the yard via LIC office, Ranchhodji Mandir, Shahera Bhagol, Nehru Garden and railway overbridge. "We are hopeful that the authorities will give us permission for the longer route by Monday morning. And even if they don't we will take the route we have decided as it is the 10th anniversary of the train carnage," said Ashish Bhatt, senior VHP leader from Godhra. Togadia is expected to address VHP workers in the evening on a ground near Panchal Hospital. A 'Sundar Kaand' paathh by Ashwin Pathak, too, would be held. tnn