Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: With Eid-ul-Fitr just a day away, security has been heightened across Delhi’s Dwarka district, as neighboring Uttam Nagar in West Delhi remains tense following the March 4 killing.Police have set up over 100 pickets, with personnel stationed on rooftops and at key junctions to monitor movement in sensitive areas.Security has been further tightened around Uttam Nagar East metro station, following directions from the Delhi High Court, to ensure preparedness amid concerns of unrest during the festival.A senior police officer said that elaborate arrangements have been made to ensure that Eid celebrations proceed peacefully. “We have made detailed deployment plans and are ready to respond swiftly to any situation,” the officer said.According to police, additional forces have been deployed in Hastsal village, where the March 4 killing occurred, and in surrounding areas, with joint deployment of Delhi Police and central armed forces at strategic locations.Tarun (26) died after being injured in a clash between two neighboring families in JJ Colony during Holi. The altercation, police said, was triggered when a water balloon thrown by a girl from one family accidentally hit a woman from the other.The incident sparked protests by some groups, during which two vehicles linked to the accused were set on fire. So far, police have arrested 14 people, including two minors, in connection with the case.Authorities said security has been intensified around mosques, Eidgahs, and other public gathering spots where large crowds are expected. Regular area domination exercises, including foot patrols and vehicle checks, are being carried out to maintain order.Police have intensified monitoring of social media to track and curb the spread of inflammatory content, with several objectionable posts already flagged and acted upon.Areas with mixed populations have been designated as sensitive and are under constant surveillance. In addition to ground deployment, police teams have been stationed at elevated points in select locations to enhance monitoring. As part of outreach efforts, flag marches have been conducted in several localities and will continue during Eid to instil confidence among residents. However, unease persists among locals. Pradeep Shukla, president of the Uttam Nagar RWA, said the visible security presence has brought a sense of control, but anxiety remains. “There is heavy barricading, and movement has reduced. It feels unusually quiet. People are still worried, but we are hoping things remain peaceful,” he said. (With agency inputs)
