The historic town of Dhar in Madhya Pradesh is witnessing an extraordinary security deployment today as the Bhojshala complex hosts both Basant Panchmi celebrations and Friday Namaz. Given the overlapping religious schedules, the district administration has turned the area into a virtual fortress to prevent any untoward incidents. Hindu devotees commenced the worship of Goddess Saraswati (Maa Vagdevi) at sunrise, marking the beginning of a day-long religious observance.
Supreme Court Mandate on Timings
The legal framework for today's events was established by a three-member bench of the Supreme Court, including CJI Surya Kant, Justice Joymalya Bagchi, and Justice Vipul Pancholi. Responding to a petition by the 'Hindu Front for Justice', the court ruled that the Hindu community would have the right to perform puja from sunrise to sunset, with a specific exception, while between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, the premises will be vacated for the Muslim community to offer Friday (Jume ki) Namaz. The administration has been tasked with ensuring a easy transition between the two groups.
Security Grid: 8000 Personnel and AI Surveillance
To maintain communal harmony and public order, an unprecedented security grid has been established. Approximately 8,000 security personnel, including units from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Rapid Action Force (RAF), and the state police, have been deployed across Dhar. Advanced technology is playing a crucial role, with AI-enabled CCTV cameras and high-resolution drones monitoring every movement around the sensitive site. Devotees are required to pass through multiple layers of barricading and rigorous security checks before entering the complex.
Religious Procession and Public Gathering
The Bhojshala Utsav Samiti has organized a grand 'Shobha Yatra' (procession) starting from Udaji Rao Chouraha at 10:00 AM. The procession is expected to reach Motibag Chowk by 11:30 AM, where a massive 'Dharma Sabha' (religious congregation) will take place. High-profile leaders, including Alok Kumar, the International President of the Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP), and Swami Swadeshanand, are scheduled to address the gathering, emphasizing the cultural significance of the day.
Rituals and Administrative Vigilance
A significant 'Maha Aarti' is scheduled for 12:45 PM inside the. Sanctum sanctorum of the Bhojshala, just before the scheduled time for Namaz. Throughout the day, various Vedic rituals, including 'Vedarambh Sanskar' and 'Havan', are being performed. The administration has implemented a strict entry system based on special passes. Plus, a dedicated team is monitoring social media platforms to curb the spread of rumors. Or provocative content, ensuring that the day passes peacefully under the watchful eyes of the law.
