The Hindu : Imam demands removal of SHO

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Sunday, Mar 28, 2004

New Delhi

New Delhi

Imam demands removal of SHO

By Our Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI, MARCH 27 .The Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid, Syed Abdulla Bukhari, has written to the Chief Election Commissioner, T.S. Krishnamurthy, demanding immediate removal of the Station House Office of the Jama Masjid police station, Giri Raj Singh Meena, for allegedly creating communal tension in the area during the recent Moharram procession.

In his complaint, a copy of which has also been forwarded to the Police Commissioner, K.K. Paul, the Shahi Imam has alleged that on March 2 when Muslim youths were taking out the Moharram procession in the Chawri Bazar area of Old Delhi, the SHO snatched the wooden sticks and swords from those in the procession.

Stating that carrying wooden planks and swords has traditionally been the part of the historic procession, he said Mr. Meena's action could have led to major communal clash.

"My arrival at the spot really averted the situation that would have left wounds and ill feelings in the hearts of many in the area since the Jama Masjid is a well- renowned mosque among Muslims in the world."

The Shahi Imam had said that continuing Mr. Meena as SHO might spark violence and create disturbances in the area.

Significantly, with elections just a few weeks away, Mr. Meena's presence in the area could hamper peace and harmony, he added.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

New Delhi