Members of the All India Hindu Mahasabha staged a protest in Agra on Friday after authorities allowed Eid-ul-Adha prayers at the mosque inside the Taj Mahal complex and granted free public entry for a limited period.
Anticipating tensions, police detained several members of the Hindu Mahasabha and placed some leaders under house arrest to prevent disruptions during the prayers.
Police Tighten Security Around Taj Mahal
Eid-ul-Adha prayers were offered on Friday morning at the mosque located inside the Taj Mahal complex in Agra. In view of possible protests, police strengthened security around the monument and deployed additional personnel from multiple police stations, including Shahganj.
According to officials, preventive measures were taken to maintain peace and law and order during the religious gathering.
Hindu Mahasabha Opposes Namaz at Taj Mahal
The Hindu Mahasabha strongly opposed the permission granted for namaz inside the Taj Mahal premises.
Meera Rathore said, “The Hindu Mahasabha opposes the permission for namaz at the Taj Mahal.”
The organisation also objected to authorities allowing free entry for around three hours during Eid prayers, arguing that similar concessions are not provided during Hindu festivals.
Protesters questioned why free access is not granted on occasions such as Mahashivratri while Eid prayers receive special arrangements.
Leaders Detained, Metropolitan President Under House Arrest
Police detained or restricted the movement of several Hindu Mahasabha leaders and workers as a precautionary step.
Vishal Kumar was reportedly placed under house arrest at his residence in Shahganj.
Other leaders, including Nisha Thakur and members of the women’s wing, were also stopped by police before they could reach the protest site.
Several workers gathered and raised slogans such as “Bam Bam Bhole” and “Jai Shri Ram” amid a heavy police presence.
Authorities Say Action Was Precautionary
Police officials said the restrictions on protesters were imposed only as a preventive measure to ensure peaceful Eid prayers and avoid any disturbance around the monument.
Security remained tight in and around the Taj Mahal complex throughout the morning, with officers monitoring the situation closely.
The Taj Mahal mosque traditionally hosts Eid prayers, and entry arrangements are often modified for worshippers during major Islamic festivals.
