Haryana Imposes Mobile Internet Ban Ahead of Yatra to Prevent Violence

The Haryana government has suspended mobile internet and bulk SMS services in Nuh district for 24 hours ahead of the Braj Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra to prevent violence. Security measures have been increased, including the deployment of drones and volunteers, amid concerns of public unrest.

The Haryana government on Sunday ordered the suspension of mobile internet and bulk SMS services in Nuh district for 24 hours, ahead of the Braj Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra, which was marred by violence last year.

Security has been heightened in the district to ensure the peaceful conduct of the event, according to Nuh Deputy Commissioner Dhirendra Khadgata. 'The situation is very peaceful and cordial ahead of the Yatra, and both communities are ready to welcome it,' Khadgata told PTI over the phone. Numerous welcome gates have been erected, and food stalls set up for the procession members, he added.

'We also have 100 volunteers who will help police with the coordination of the movement along the Yatra route,' the Deputy Commissioner noted. Drones will be deployed along the route, which starts at Nalhar temple and ends at Singar, passing via Jhir temple.

The suspension of internet services, from 6 pm Sunday to 6 pm Monday, was ordered by Haryana Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Anurag Rastogi to prevent misinformation and rumors from spreading via social media platforms. The order cited potential tensions and disturbances as the reason for the precautionary measure.

At least six people were killed, and scores injured, including a cleric attacked in a Gurugram mosque, following last year's interfaith clashes. The BJP-led government, under Manohar Khattar, faced strong criticism from opposition parties over the violence.