Security measures were put in place for the Vishwa Hindu Parishad’s (VHP) Braj Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra. This included surveillance drones, over 2,000 Haryana Police personnel, and around 3,000 central paramilitary forces. The previous yatra resulted in communal clashes and six fatalities. Despite the Chief Minister’s appeal to cancel the yatra, the VHP planned to continue to Malhar Temple. However, the local administration denied permission and implemented strict measures such as sealing entry and exit points, suspending internet services, and closing schools, colleges, and banks.
Prominent VHP member Kulbhushan Bhardwaj claimed that he and other leaders were prevented from participating in the yatra due to police presence around their residences. The Haryana Police denied any preventive house arrests. The Chief Minister cited last month’s violence as the reason for withholding permission, emphasizing the government’s responsibility to maintain law and order.
Efforts were made to ensure peace as Nuh’s deputy commissioner and police superintendent met with peace committees before the yatra. The Haryana Police also collaborated with officers from neighboring states. On the day of the yatra, strict checks were enforced at entry and exit points in the National Capital Region due to past clashes and injuries.
During the yatra, two VHP leaders in Gurugram were temporarily detained while district borders were sealed and sensitive areas secured. Police checked IDs and restricted access for non-residents. Gatherings of more than five individuals armed with any type of weapons were prohibited to maintain security.
Despite challenges, VHP members expressed determination to proceed with the procession, citing strong support from devotees. Last month’s violence resulted in arrests, including cow vigilante Raj Kumar and associates. The prime accused, Monu Manesar, remains at large, facing charges for inciting tensions through provocative videos.
As the yatra approached, village leaders in Nuh urged residents to stay indoors. Alarming posters targeting Muslim migrant workers in Gurugram caused fear, but the police promised appropriate action.
