Ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr and the last Friday prayers of Ramzan, Meerut Police on Thursday issued a strict warning against offering namaz on roads. Officials warned that violators could face severe legal actions, including cancellation of passports and driving licenses if cases are registered against them.
Meerut Superintendent of Police (City) Ayush Vikram Singh, in a meeting with Muslim community leaders, stressed that Eid prayers must be offered at mosques or designated Eidgahs. “No one should perform namaz on the roads,” he said.
Meerut Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Vipin Tada confirmed that discussions had been held with community leaders and stakeholders at both district and police station levels to ensure adherence to the directive.
“We are closely monitoring social media platforms. Any attempts to spread misinformation or incite unrest will be met with stringent legal action,” the SSP said.
To maintain law and order, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel have been deployed, and flag marches are being conducted in the district, Tada said. Authorities have also identified sensitive areas based on past incidents and are making special security arrangements accordingly.
RJD Leader Reacts on Restrictions
The restrictions have drawn criticism, notably from Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leader Jayant Singh Chaudhary. In a cryptic social media post, he likened the order to a “police state” and referenced George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984, writing, “Policing towards Orwellian 1984.”
Similar Restrictions in Sambhal
Authorities in Sambhal have also imposed similar restrictions, directing that Eid and Alvida Juma prayers be confined to mosques and Eidgahs only.
At a peace committee meeting, Additional SP Shrish Chandra made it clear that congregational prayers on streets or even rooftops adjacent to mosques would not be permitted. “Legal action will be initiated against violators,” he said.
Officials further clarified that no permissions had been granted for the use of loudspeakers during the festival.
