Uttam Nagar current news: Delhi’s Uttam Nagar, where a clash on Holi left a man dead and triggered communal tensions in the area, is observing Eid-ul-Fitr in a subdued atmosphere amid tight police security on Saturday (March 21). A heavy deployment of Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel has been put in place across Hastsal village and adjoining localities, with barricades erected at entry and exit points and strict identity checks are in effect, an official said as per PTI.
Only residents are being allowed into certain stretches after verification, while the movement of outsiders is restricted. Additionally, teams are conducting regular foot patrols and monitoring rooftop positions, narrow lanes and other sensitive pockets through CCTV cameras to prevent any untoward incident.
“Security arrangements have been strengthened to ensure the festival passes off peacefully. We are maintaining a close watch on all developments,” a senior police officer said as quoted by PTI, adding that more forces are on standby. Despite heavy security and restrictions, locals have begun offering Eid prayers, though celebrations remain largely low key.
The arrangements came after the Delhi High Court on Thursday directed the police and civil administration “to take all required action permissible under law” to ensure that the situation in Uttam Nagar “does not take any ugly turn”, and that “an atmosphere is created of peaceful and dignified celebration of Eid”.
Four hundred central armed police forces (CAPF) personnel and an equal number of district police personnel had been proactively stationed in the area since March 5, the Delhi Police told the court.
The Holi Tensions
On Holi (March 4), one Tarun (26) died near his home in A-Block after being injured in a clash between two neighbouring families in JJ Colony. The altercation was triggered after a water balloon thrown by a girl from one family accidentally hit a woman from the other. The incident had led to protests by some groups, during which two vehicles linked to the accused were set on fire. Police have since arrested multiple accused in connection with the case.
Authorities said they are also keeping a close watch on social media to curb rumours and prevent the spread of inflammatory content.
(With Inputs from PTI)
