‘Won’t allow Muslims to conduct the Eid procession’ : Hindus in Bareilly

Hindus of Bareilly (Uttar Pradesh) take a firm stand against Muslims who had opposed Kavad Yatra procession last month

Bareilly (Uttar Pradesh) – On the night of September 15th, a Muslim procession named ‘Juloos-e-Mohammadi’ was taken out in the Jogi Nawada area. This procession, involving four smaller groups (Anjumans), grew larger and included a DJ sound system, which had not been used in the past. As the procession of over 500 Muslims passed through Maurya lane, Hindus in the area strongly opposed it, deeming it ‘untraditional’. In response, the Police intervened and removed the DJ from the procession. However, despite the removal, Hindus continued to oppose the procession. Faced with strong resistance, the Police adopted a cautious approach, instructing the procession to reduce its numbers. The Muslims protested this decision. In the midst of tensions, some Hindus poured water on the Police from rooftops, with both groups chanting religious slogans. The procession came to a standstill and did not proceed till 2:15 a.m.

This procession is an annual event held during Eid; however, it typically involves a limited number of participants and does not traditionally include a DJ. Last month, during the Kavad Yatra, Muslims had strongly objected to the use of a DJ by Hindus, calling it ‘untraditional.’ This time, the Hindus’ protest against the DJ in the Muslim procession is being seen as a form of reciprocation, protesting in a similar manner.

Editorial Perspective

It is crucial for Hindus to speak out against the injustices they face, and Hindus across India should draw a lesson from this incident. Why has it become necessary to take such a firm stand ? Yet, pseudo-seculars would not like this, and they may label Hindus as ‘intolerant’ and preach to them instead.