Sambalpur: Decision Changed in a Day; Religious Procession Reversed by IGP Meeting
Decision Reversal by District Administration
Sambalpur: The Sambalpur District Administration’s decision has been reversed. Previously, the district administration had allowed the Moharram procession by removing religious restrictions. However, during a meeting today at the Northern Region IGP office, the decision was abruptly reversed. According to reports, the current Moharram procession has been completely banned due to the lack of improvement in the situation. Local residents will hold religious activities in their respective areas, as they have in previous years. Himanshu Lal, the IGP for the Northern Region, provided this information.
Situation and Police Statement
Northern Region IGP Himanshu Lal stated that the previously imposed restrictions remain in effect. As a result, it was decided to celebrate Moharram locally. Religious activities will be held locally, with no grand celebrations. Moharram, like Hanuman Jayanti, will be limited to local areas. The district collector and SP, along with other administrative officers, will consult with the Moharram committee on how to commemorate the occasion locally. Once the situation improves, permission for processions will be granted. Religious processions are currently not permitted in Sambalpur.
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Context of Previous Decisions
Since the Hanuman Jayanti violence last year, no religious processions have been held in Sambalpur. The district administration had previously stated that religious processions would not be permitted until the situation improved. The district collector, however, chaired a peace and coordination meeting yesterday and granted permission for the Moharram procession. However, because representatives from other religions were not present, another meeting was held today at the Northern Region IGP office, chaired by IGP Himanshu Lal. Due to the lack of progress, the religious procession was prohibited, which was accepted by both Muslim and Hindu representatives. The district administration’s directive will be followed for religious gatherings.
Meeting Outcomes and Public Reaction
Representatives from all eight Moharram committees attended the meeting, emphasizing the importance of observing the festival peacefully. It was agreed to celebrate the festival in accordance with the district administration’s directive. Sudhir Bohidar, the BJP’s leader, stated that they welcome the district administration’s decision. Given the current circumstances, they support the administration’s decision. Once the situation improves, all religious processions will resume.
Demand Letter from Sambalpur Moharram Committee
Various Moharram committees of Sambalpur city have presented a demand letter to the district collector today, requesting government financial assistance for celebrating the Moharram festival. Representatives including Mohammad Isak, advisor of the Daleipada Moharram Committee, Mohammad Yusub, secretary of the Sunapali Moharram Committee, Mohammad Aslam, secretary of the Daleipada Moharram Committee, and MD Ajgar, secretary of the Kumharpada Moharram Committee, were present.
