NEW DELHI: Mosques in Shahjahanpur were covered with tarpaulins ahead of the ‘Laat Saheb’ Holi celebration on March 14.
Shahjahanpur celebrates Holi with a distinctive tradition known as ‘Laat Sahab’, where a chosen individual sits atop a buffalo cart during a procession whilst the crowd pelts him with colours, shoes and slippers. This custom dates back three centuries.
SP Rajesh S informed, “We started the peace committee meeting a month ago and demanded the required number of security forces. In total, around 3,500 security forces will be deployed. All mosques on both sides of Laat Sahib have been covered. We are keeping an eye through drones and CCTVs. All preparations have been made.”
Following the Holika Dahan, Shahjahanpur witnesses seventeen processions, including the notable Bade Laat Sahab and Chhote Laat Sahab processions. According to Rajesh, these processions represent a distinctive celebration unparalleled elsewhere in the country.
Regarding security arrangements, he elaborated on the extensive preparations initiated through Peace Committee meetings at various administrative levels.
Forces have been sourced from different districts, including two specialised companies – one paramilitary (PC) and one RF force. A route march has been completed, and the combined strength of external and local forces amounts to approximately 3,000 to 3,500 personnel. Security measures encompass all mosques along the procession route.
The local administration has implemented additional safety measures this year, supported by substantial police deployment in the vicinity.
