Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh: Friday prayers at the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal district went off without a hitch, as security was tightened to ensure a smooth celebration of both Holi and Juma prayers. The local administration took extra precautions, ensuring that both festivities unfolded peacefully despite claims from Hindu fringe groups over mosque ownership.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra confirmed that both the Holi processions and Friday prayers were held without any issues, thanks to the cooperation of the local community in keeping the peace. "Along with Holi, the Jumma namaz was performed peacefully. We have managed to celebrate both things peacefully. The processions were also carried out peacefully. Everyone cooperated. This gives the message that peace remains in Sambhal," Mishra told PTI.
She also mentioned that a strong security presence was in place to manage the crowds and prevent any disruptions.
Namaz to us waqt ka Yazeed bhi nahin Rok Paya tha to Is waqt ka sanghi kaise Rok pata..#UttarPradesh #Sambhal #Holi pic.twitter.com/gULAYDHyko
— Karbari Ansari (@karbari_ansari) March 14, 2025
District Magistrate Rajendra Pensia praised the collective effort to maintain peace, highlighting the cooperation of residents after unrest last November. "Everyone is happy, celebrating Holi with colors, and we are receiving full cooperation from all," Pensia told the news agency in a statement.
#WATCH | Sambhal, UP | CO Anuj Chaudhary says, "All have celebrated Holi with love. Now, people are going to offer Namaz, and it will also be done peacefully. The Holi procession was huge, with almost 3000 people taking part, but everything has happened peacefully." pic.twitter.com/ikNi2j73Ey
— ANI (@ANI) March 14, 2025
Holi Celebration at Kartikeya Mahadev Temple After 46 Years
After nearly 50 years, the Kartikeya Mahadev Temple in Sambhal hosted a vibrant Holi celebration, with participation from various Hindu organisations. Local authorities ensured a secure environment, and special measures were implemented due to the overlap of Holi and Friday prayers during Ramzan. Tarpaulins were used to cover 10 mosques, including the Shahi Jama Masjid, to prevent disturbances.
Police Led a Flag March to Ensure Peaceful Celebration
To ensure law and order, Circle Officer Anuj Chowdhary led a flag march, accompanied by police personnel, and emphasized the district’s commitment to peace. "We are conducting foot-patrolling and drone surveillance to closely monitor the situation," Chowdhary told PTI. Paramilitary forces were also deployed for added security.
MP Barq Urged Harmony During Holi and Juma Prayers
Earlier, Sambhal MP Zia ur Rehman Barq appealed to residents of all communities to prioritize peace during Holi and Juma prayers. On social media, Barq urged Hindus to celebrate Holi mindfully near mosques and asked Muslims to offer prayers at nearby mosques if they wished to avoid areas with Holi celebrations.
"I appeal to both communities to act in a way that doesn’t hurt anyone’s sentiments. This call for peace comes not out of fear but for the sake of brotherhood and harmony," Barq said in a statement on social media.
With an efefctive coordination between local authorities and the support of residents, both Holi and Juma prayers were observed peacefully in Sambhal this year.