SHILLONG, Oct 19: The Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills has granted permission for a peaceful procession scheduled for Wednesday to protest against the vandalisation of temples and attacks on Hindu devotees in Bangladesh, but with riders.
In a letter to the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), the Deputy Commissioner specified that the procession will be held between 11 AM and 1 PM starting from Jhalupara point to Anjali Petrol Pump, then Civil Hospital, Keating Road, and will culminate at Boucher Road. No foot procession has been permitted, however protesters may take the procession on vehicles.
A maximum of 10 light motor vehicles and 50 participants have been have been permitted for the procession.
The DC has directed the organisers to complete the procession within the stipulated time and to ensure that there is no deviation from the permitted routes and time.
Use of PA system has been restricted as per a Supreme Court order, and the organisers have been told to ensure no untoward incident before, during and after the procession, and not to disrupt vehicular traffic as well as pedestrians.
The DC has also mentioned that the organisers will make sure that any type of weapon or equipment with the potential of being used as a weapon is not allowed.
Also, burning of the effigies of central as well as state political leaders/representatives as well as dishonouring of their photographs has been disallowed in the event.
Apart from this, the DC has directed the participants to maintain social distancing, and personal hygiene, as well as mandatorily wear masks at all times.
Earlier the Central Puja Committee had expressed its concern over the incidents that took place in Bangladesh and also decided to submit a memorandum through the Governor and Meghalaya Chief Minister to draw the attention of the heads of state and governments of both India and Bangladesh.