The Orissa High Court has given the green signal for the Hanuman Jayanti processions in Sambalpur, instructing the state government to ensure strict security measures to maintain law and order.
The ruling follows a public interest litigation (PIL) that sought a ban on the event due to concerns over potential unrest.
Last year, Hanuman Jayanti celebrations in Sambalpur were marred by large-scale violence, resulting in clashes, property damage, a curfew, and an internet shutdown. This led to renewed concerns ahead of the April 14 celebrations this year, prompting a PIL calling for prohibiting the procession.
During the hearing, the petitioners urged a ban, citing past violence and demanding deployment of central security forces to prevent disturbances.
However, the state government assured the court that all religious processions would be allowed, with robust law enforcement measures in place. The central government also stated that there were no intelligence reports warning of potential unrest.
After hearing both sides, the High Court ruled in favor of allowing the procession, stressing the need for stringent security arrangements. The government has now been tasked with implementing preventive measures and deploying adequate police forces to ensure peaceful celebrations.
With the court’s approval, authorities are expected to closely monitor the situation, preventing any disruptions and upholding communal harmony during the festival.
