Weeks after Delhi’s Uttam Nagar witnessed communal tension over the killing of Tarun Butolia, Muslims in the area were seen showering flowers on police officers after Eid-ul-Fitr prayers on Saturday amid tight security. Residents said they were grateful to the Delhi Police for maintaining law and order during the “Khoon Ki Holi” threats allegedly made by leaders and religious groups.
A viral video on the Internet shows two men carrying a bag filled with flower petals and throwing them at police officers and rapid response personnel, while a person can be heard speaking in the background. He said: “The officers have given their full support.”
(Livemint could not independently verify the authenticity of the video)
What did the residents say on Eid-ul-Fitr?
“We offered namaz peacefully. Our Hindu friends are expected to join us and we look forward to celebrating together. We are saddened by what happened to Tarun (the victim of the March 4 incident); he was like a brother to us. However, the situation on the ground is not as tense as it has been portrayed (on social media). Our neighbors have been very kind, they said they are very kind, and PTI according to the police they ensured security,” said Pvez.
Another local, Mohammad Naveen, said the situation was still slightly tense. He remarked, “It is not the same feeling because of the environment created by outsiders along with heavy police deployment. We are celebrating Eid under some tension. That means we are grateful to the Delhi Police for maintaining law and order, which allowed us to celebrate safely.”
Khalid Ali, president of Jama Masjid in Uttam Nagar, said earlier riots in the area had worsened rumors and the involvement of foreigners. He noted that although the atmosphere was tense earlier, the police provided adequate security and maintained law and order, and as a result, Eid was celebrated peacefully, adding that all mosques in Uttam Nagar also observed the festival without any disturbance.
Arrangement in the area
Police said a large number of Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel have been deployed around Hastsal village and surrounding areas. Roadblocks have been placed at important entry and exit points and strict identity checks are being enforced.
Access to some routes is restricted to local residents after verification, while outsiders are not allowed to move freely in the area. Police teams also conduct regular foot patrols and use CCTV cameras to keep a close eye on rooftops, narrow lanes and other sensitive places to avoid any unexpected incident.
Dwarka Deputy Commissioner of Police Kushal Pal Singh said the situation remained peaceful.
What is the Uttam Nagar Holi incident about?
On Holi, March 4, a 26-year-old man named Tarun was killed after he was injured in a clash between two neighboring families in JJ Colony. The dispute is said to have started when a water balloon thrown by a girl from one family accidentally hit a woman from another family.
The incident later sparked protests during which two vehicles allegedly linked to the accused were torched. The police have arrested several people in connection with the case.
