Hindus to lead Muharram procession in riot-hit Trilokpuri

Days after being hit by communal riots, Delhi's Trilokpuri is preparing to set an example in communal amity as 30 Hindu volunteers will lead the colony's Muharram procession Nov 4.

The Hindu volunteers will be divided among the four Muharram processions that will set out from the riot-hit blocks of the east Delhi area that saw 60 people, including policemen, getting injured over three days of violence from Oct 23.

Muharram is observed by Muslims to mourn the death of Imam Hussein ibn Ali, the grandson of Prophet Mohammad in the battle of Karbala.

"Over 30 Hindu volunteers will be part of all four Muharram processions. It will start from Block 27 and end at the symbolic Karbala in Trilokpuri's Kotla," Riyazuddin Saifi, a resident and member of the aman committee (peace committee), told IANS.

"Around 400 people are likely to take part in each procession. The volunteers from Hindu and Muslim committees will also keep a tab on any suspicious activity and immediately inform police," he said.

Delhi Police have made preparations to ensure a peaceful Muharram.

"We have got a list of the Hindu volunteers who will ensure that the processions are held peacefully," Joint Commissioner of Police Sanjay Beniwal told IANS.

"Precautionary measures have been taken to maintain harmony in the area," he said.

The measures include restriction on carrying sharp-edged articles like blades, chains and whips, which are traditionally used by the devout to inflict physical pain on themselves as part of mourning.

"The participants have agreed not to scourge themselves during the march," a police officer said.

Around 200 additional policemen will be deployed during the one-km Muharram march. Each procession will be escorted by police teams.

"This time we have altered the route to reduce the distance," the officer added.

Delhi Police had imposed prohibitory orders under section 144 CrPC (which ban unlawful assembly of people) two days after the clashes.

Over 1,000 policemen, including personnel of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), have been deployed in the area since Oct 26. Police had also restricted the movement of people and vehicles in the area after the riots.

For the past four days, police have been allowing people to move in the area only during day time.