Avoid spreading rumours on Muharram: Delhi Police

Delhi Police commissioner B.S. Bassi Monday appealed to the people to avoid spreading rumours during Muharram processions to be held in the city Nov 4, adding that strict action would be taken against violators.

He said: "I appeal to the people to avoid spreading any rumours. If anyone is found to be involved in such activities, they will be dealt with strictly."

He also said that Delhi Police have collected evidence of those spreading rumours through Whatsapp and social networking sites, and have warned that legal action would be taken against anti-social elements, who get themselves involved in such activities.

"Our eyes are on Bawana, Tilokpuri and other parts of the city, which are sensitive. We have asked men to keep a tab on such areas, where the processions are to be held Tuesday," Bassi concluded.

Tension simmered in some parts of Delhi after Hindu leaders objected to the routes of the Muharram processions, a holy march observed by Muslims every year.

Bassi told IANS at the police headquarters here: "We have made elaborate arrangements and conducted meetings with Aman Committee members and leaders of both the communities (Hindu, Muslim) to maintain peace during the Muharram processions."

"Our Special Branch is in touch with people of both the communities so that no one is able to spread rumours," he added.

On Sunday, Jat community leaders, in the presence of local politicians and Delhi Police officers, conducted a mahapanchayat in west Delhi's Bawana at which they objected to the Muharram procession routes in their area.

"A month ago, we got information about some tension in Bawana but we handled the situation. The area is under control," a police officer said.

Sources in the Delhi Police told IANS that there are few other places where people have objected to the Muharram processions in their areas.

Following the tense situation, Delhi Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung also held a meeting of Delhi Police officers.

The officers briefed him about the preparations for Muharram and also informed him about the situation in riot-hit east Delhi's Trilokpuri where two groups of Hindus and Muslims clashed over Diwali celebrations Oct 23.