Authorities in Hisar have deployed a massive police force around the city's 160-year-old St Thomas Church, a day after right-wing groups announced a religious programme at the same location on Christmas Day. The move aims to prevent any potential disturbance and maintain public order during the festive period.
Heavy Security Blanket for Historic Church
Around 250 police personnel have been stationed in and around Krantiman Park and the church premises as a precautionary measure. The contingent includes two Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), two inspectors, and 40–50 women police officers. The police have also positioned Vajra vehicles and water cannons in the area to handle any unforeseen situation.
Hisar police spokesperson Vikas Kumar confirmed the extensive deployment, stating that the force is monitoring the situation closely. The police action follows announcements by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal over the past week, which involved putting up posters across Hisar. These posters advertised a mass Hanuman Chalisa recitation and a Mahayagna scheduled from 2 pm to 5 pm on December 25 at Krantiman Park, near the church.
Conflicting Claims Over Permissions
The Civil Lines police station issued notices to four individuals—Amar from Kameri village, Sanjeev Chauhan from 12 Quarters, Kapil Vats from Indira Colony, and Praveen Lahoria from Lahoria Chowk. The notices informed them that no permission had been obtained from the district administration for their proposed event.
However, VHP district harmony chief Kapil Vats contested this claim. He asserted that permission was sought from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), who then referred the matter to the Civil Lines police station. Vats alleged that the police station granted permission as per the rules, contradicting the police's official statement.
Church Seeks Assurance, Citizens Voice Concern
Victor David, chairman of the St Thomas Church peace and discipline committee, stated that police officials met him on Wednesday and assured him of full security. He clarified that the church's annual Christmas programme at Krantiman Park, which is open to people of all faiths, would commence only after receiving clear instructions from the police administration.
The announcement by the right-wing groups prompted a delegation from 'Action Against Hate', an organisation of concerned citizens, to meet Municipal Commissioner Neeraj Kumar and Superintendent of Police Shashank Kumar Sawan on Tuesday. The officials assured the delegation of appropriate administrative action to maintain peace.
Prominent right-wing figures, including Bajrang Dal national convener Kishan Prajapati and VHP state organisation functionary Radheshyam Kranti, are scheduled to attend the December 25 programme. Police and district administration officials have reiterated that the situation is being closely monitored to ensure peace, public order, and communal harmony in the city.
