Meerut Police on Thursday, March 27, issued strict warnings against ‘unauthorised’ roadside prayers, saying violators will face legal action that may lead to their passports getting cancelled and driving licences revoked. The directive comes ahead of Eid-Ul-Fitr and last Friday prayers of Ramzan. Superintendent of Police Ayush Vikram Singh told news agency PTI that no one should perform Namaz on the roads and Eid prayers should be offered at local mosques or at a designated Eidgah.
Ayush Vikram Singh said notices have been issued regarding the recent directive and warned that individuals violating it may have their passport and driving licence revoked. “Last year, some individuals defied the directives and prayed on the roads, leading to action against more than 80 people. This time, anyone violating the rule will face strict legal action,” he added.
“If criminal cases are registered against individuals, their passports and licenses can be cancelled, and obtaining a new passport would become difficult without a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the court. Such documents remain confiscated until the individuals are cleared by the court,” Singh explained.
Union minister and RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary reacted to Meerut police’s directive in a post on X: “Policing towards Orwellian 1984!” he wrote. In his iconic novel “Nineteen Eighty-Four”, George Orwell talks about law enforcers or Thought Police who have immense powers.
Meerut SSP Vipin Tada said that security agencies are coordinating with the district administration to ensure a “peaceful celebration.”
Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) and Rapid Action Force (RAF) personnel have been deployed, and flag marches are being conducted in “sensitive areas,” he said. Uniformed and plainclothes officers will also be stationed at all sensitive locations.
“Strict action will be taken against those trying to spread rumours or incite unrest through social media. We are keeping a close watch on social media platforms, and any attempt to disrupt communal harmony will be dealt with firmly,” the SSP said.