‘We will miss Tajiya procession this time’

The Walled City will definitely have a somber atmosphere on Monday since Tajiya procession will not be taken out this year to celebrate Muharram. Leaders of the minority committee had earlier announced That There will be Tajiya processions owing to the communal violence in the state.

The decision was also taken to mark the several grotesque deaths in the city and state since Feburary 28. Moreover, most Muslim-dominated areas like Shahpur Kalupur, Gaekwad haveli and major areas for the Tajiyas procession to move. are under curfew while heavy police and security personnel presence is already in other sensitive parts as a precautionary measure. However, it is be common man who is upset That they will not get to take part in Muharram.

Abid Ali sheikh, a resident of Shahpur, said, We have so few festivals to celebrate in comparison to other comn,unities but Muharram is out of question this year. We will miss the wonderful decorations on various Tajiyas that usually move about the Old City and the special food prepared will also be absent. There is an air of remorse everywhere and people are angry at the unending violence but are scared to voice their opinion.

Sultanbhai, a senior citizen and resident of gaekwad Haveli, said, "There are more policemen on the streets than what as otherwise deployed for Tajiya processions in the past. It is as if we are all part of the communal violence. Canceling Muharram celebrations has touched all of our sentiments but we abide by what our leaders say. Our message to all Hindus is that there is nothing to fear as we do not want to cause any harm. Violence is spread by a certain lot of elements and politicians, not the common man. We hope this is over soon and we can celebrate it in grand fashion next time."

Joint commissioner of police sector II M.K. Tandon told that "We have made adequate bandobast in all communally sensitive areas of the old city and outskirts keeping Muharram in mind. Though most police, military and paramilitary personnel are constantly combing streets and are on the vigil, we are not taking any chance. Tajiya processions will not be taken out this time but an eye will also be kept on certain areas where curfew has not been imposed. However, we expect people to gather for the ocassion and will be on the alert."

Republished from The Indian Express