Dhar, May 21 (IANS) The administration in Dhar stepped up security on Thursday ahead of a major religious programme scheduled at the Bhojshala complex on Friday, conducting a flag march across sensitive areas and warning against attempts to disturb communal harmony.
The heightened vigil comes after the Indore bench of the Madhya Pradesh High Court’s May 15 order in the long-running Bhojshala-Kamal Maula Mosque dispute.
The court declared that the disputed site is a temple of goddess Vagdevi (Saraswati), allowing the Hindu community to worship there, while dismissing the Muslim community’s claim.
Keeping Friday’s programmes in view, police personnel carrying batons and automatic weapons marched through several parts of Dhar, including the sensitive Hatwara area.
The force moved on motorcycles, jeeps, and horses, while patriotic songs were played to appeal for peace and brotherhood.
Additional police forces have been deployed at sensitive locations across the district.
Surveillance has also been increased in and around the Bhojshala complex to prevent any untoward incident.
Dhar Collector Rajiv Ranjan Meena and Superintendent of Police Sachin Sharma personally reviewed the security arrangements and interacted with local residents during the flag march.
Addressing people in Hatwara, SP Sharma warned against spreading misleading information about the High Court’s order through social media or other platforms.
“I am issuing a final warning to those spreading misleading interpretations of the High Court verdict. From now onwards, only the law will prevail,” he said.
The SP said strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt peace during Friday’s programme.
“We are fully prepared to handle any situation. Those trying to create unrest will face strict action,” Sharma added.
Collector Meena also appealed to citizens to cooperate with the administration and avoid rumours.
“People should maintain peace and communal harmony. Strict action will be taken against anyone trying to disturb law and order,” he said.
The administration has intensified security measures across Dhar ahead of Friday’s religious event at Bhojshala.
–IANS
pd/dan