Haryana Imposes Curbs in Nuh Ahead of Braj Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra: Internet Suspended, Schools Shut

In a bid to maintain law and order ahead of the Braj Mandal Jalabhishek Yatra, the Haryana government has ramped up security and imposed several restrictions across Nuh district. The move comes amid concerns of possible unrest, given the violent clashes that marred the same event last year.

Key Restrictions in Place

1. Internet and SMS Services Suspended
An official order issued by Haryana’s Additional Chief Secretary (Home) states that mobile internet, data services, and bulk SMS will remain suspended in Nuh until 9 PM on Monday, July 14. However, essential services such as banking-related SMS, mobile recharges, and voice calls will not be affected.

2. All Schools Closed on July 14
In the interest of student safety, all government and private schools in Nuh have been ordered to remain closed on Monday. Deputy Commissioner Vishram Kumar Meena directed the District Education Officer to ensure full compliance with the closure order.

3. Ban on Sale of Non-Vegetarian Food
Authorities have imposed a temporary ban on the sale and public display of meat, fish, and other non-vegetarian food items along the yatra route.
“The ban will be in effect from 6 AM to midnight and covers the stretch from Nalhad Mahadev Temple to Zhirkeshwar Mahadev Temple in Ferozepur Jhirka and the Singar Temple in Singar village,” said Meena. The same applies to food stalls and shops near religious sites.

4. Airspace and Fireworks Restrictions
As part of the enhanced security measures, the district has banned the use of drones, microlights, gliders, hot air balloons, fireworks, and even kite flying until further notice. The move is aimed at preventing surveillance lapses or potential disturbances during the religious procession.

Why the Curbs?

The tight security and restrictions come in the wake of the 2023 violence that erupted during the same yatra. That year, a Vishwa Hindu Parishad procession was attacked by a mob, resulting in the deaths of five people, including two home guards. Widespread violence spread to neighboring Gurugram, where a naib imam was killed in a mosque and incidents of arson and rioting were reported.

The 2023 unrest also left over 200 people injured, leading to heightened concerns over the safety of both pilgrims and local residents this year.

The Haryana government has reiterated that these measures are preventive and temporary, aimed solely at ensuring peace and security during the religious event.