New Delhi (PTI): Heavy security has been put in place for a procession to be taken out on the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti on Thursday in northwest Delhi's Jahangirpuri area, which was hit by communal violence last year.

According to the police, the organisers had sought permission for the Hanuman Jayanti procession in the Jahangirpuri area and the route has been regularised.

Hanuman Jayanti, which celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman, is being observed on Thursday.

Special Commissioner of Police (law and order) Deependra Pathak said, "Hanuman Jayanti celebration at Jahangirpuri is being regulated in consultation with the organisers. We are ensuring that it takes place safely and securely."

The Ministry of Home Affairs on Wednesday asked all states to ensure law and order during Hanuman Jayanti on April 6 and monitor any factor that could disturb peace and harmony in society.

The MHA's advisory was aimed at sensitising law enforcement agencies following the communal violence last week.

Eight police personnel and a local were injured in stone-pelting and arson after clashes broke out between two communities in Jahangirpuri during a Hanuman Jayanti procession on April 16, 2022. Some vehicles were also torched.

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Belthangady: The administrative board of Sri Gopalakrishna Temple in Tekkaru has issued a letter of regret to local Muslim leaders following widespread outrage over a hate speech delivered by Belthangady MLA Harish Poonja during the temple’s Brahmakalashotsava ceremony.

In a meeting convened between Hindu and Muslim community leaders, the temple board expressed deep regret over the derogatory remarks made by the MLA. The president of the Devara Gudde Seva Trust, Sri Gopalakrishna Bhatrabailu, wrote a letter addressed to the Saralikatte Muslim Okkoota, stating that the board welcomes continued cooperation from the Muslim community and hopes for the restoration of communal harmony in the village.

The incident occurred on the night of May 3 during the Brahmakalashotsava celebrations, where MLA Harish Poonja allegedly made inflammatory comments targeting the local Muslim community. He accused members of the community of vandalising temple lights and stealing diesel, remarks which were captured on video and widely circulated on social media. The speech has been condemned by various quarters for being communal and inciting hatred. An FIR has also been registered at Uppinangady Police Station in connection with the incident.

Muslim representatives had earlier submitted a letter to the temple board seeking clarification on the MLA's speech. In response, a joint meeting was held, during which the board acknowledged the community’s contributions and extended an apology.

It was brought to the notice of the board that the Muslim residents of Tekkaru had actively supported the temple festival in various ways. Munir donated a tree for use in the event, Abbas provided land for building the stage, and vehicle parking was arranged on land owned by the children of T.H. Ustad. Additionally, Muslim families offered their properties for water supply and food distribution, and even contributed financially. Local Muslims had also displayed banners wishing success for the event.

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