The tension between the police administration and Hindu organizations over the Ram Navami rally in Howrah has reached the Calcutta High Court. Anjani Putra Sena and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad were persistent in organizing the rally along the traditional route, while Howrah police were unwilling to grant permission. Moving to the judiciary, these organizations approached the court. The Calcutta High Court granted them conditional permission to proceed with the rally along the planned route, ensuring police presence both ahead and behind the rally attendees.
In its order, the Calcutta High Court emphasized the need for a peaceful rally. It was also stated that no weapons would be allowed during the procession. While permission was sought for carrying the symbolic mace associated with Lord Hanuman, the court accepted the plea from the Anjani Putra Sena's counsel, allowing participants to carry a mace, provided it is made of plastic.
The court's conditional approval required the presence of the police at the front and rear of the rally. It further dictated that the events should conclude between 8:30 AM and 12:00 PM. Moreover, 500 participants must submit photocopies of their Aadhar and PAN cards to Howrah's Central Division Deputy Police Commissioner. The police were also instructed to submit a detailed report by the following Wednesday.
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad is also organizing a rally on Ram Navami, scheduled between 3 PM and 6 PM. Although both rallies are set on different routes, they share similar conditions. The VHP's rally will commence from BE College Gate-1, proceed through Malik Gate, and conclude at Ramkrishnapur Ghat. Meanwhile, the Anjani Putra Sena's procession will begin at the Narsimha Temple in Howrah, follow GT Road, and finish at Howrah Maidan.
It should be noted that prior to approaching the court, organizers sought permission from Howrah police, which was initially denied for the proposed routes. In response to this denial, they petitioned the Calcutta High Court, claiming the police's decision violated previous court orders from 2023 and 2024. The court has since provided conditional authorization for the rallies.
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