INDORE/MHOW: Accusing Madhya Pradesh government of pursuing “politics of appeasement” in Dhar Bhojshala, leaders of a right-wing outfit on Sunday said Hindus would offer prayers outside the premises if Muslims offer namaz simultaneously.
Talking to media office bearer of Bhoj Utsav Samiti and patron of Hindu Jagran Manch, Vijay Singh Rathore said, “During Digvijaya Singh’s rule in 2003, BJP had accused Congress of pursuing politics of appeasement. But, now BJP too is indulging in the same. Now, chief minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan should clarify whether the new arrangement for namaaz and prayers on Basant Panchami have been worked out keeping an eye on vote bank politics.”
He said Hindus will not enter Bhojshala premises and would willingly offer prayers outside if namaz is offered simultaneously. “ASI is not a constitutional body authorised to release timings to offer prayers. Near the Bhojshala, there is Kalam Maulana Mosque where namaz can be offered and Hindus should be given right to offer prayers on Basant Panchmi from sunrise to sunset without any interruption. This will help in maintaining peace and harmony in the town,” Rathore said.
As the D-day approaches, district administration has converted Dhar into a fortress to to tackle any untoward incident. Police sources said a large force including senior officers and black cat commandos will be deployed at Bhojshala on February 11 and will remain there till February 13. A 7,000 strong police force will guard Bhojshala and Dhar town. This will include three companies of Rapid Action Force, two companies of Quick Response Force (commandos) and two companies of Special Armed Force.
Inside the Bhojshala premises, there will be 2,200 constables, 300 women constables, 25 horse mounted jawans, three DIGs, 12 SPs, 24 ASPs, 84 DSPs, 137 TIs, 284 SIs and 280 ASIs. “Barricading has been done at each and every step in the city. Administration has pumped all its officers to look after each and every devotee participating in the Basant Panchmi prayer. Officers are treating devotees as if they are anti-social elements,” said Rathore.