Saharanpur: Eid celebrations in Saharanpur began early in the morning as thousands of worshippers gathered at various mosques across the city to offer prayers. However, the occasion also saw political undertones as some people carried Palestinian flags and raised slogans in support of Palestine at the historic Ghantaghar (Clock Tower).
Eid prayers commenced at 8:15 AM at Eidgah on Ambala Road under heightened security arrangements by the police and administration. Worshippers had been making their way to Eidgah since early morning, with prayers also being held at various other mosques in the city. At Masjid Company Bagh Purani Chungi and Masjid Shahvilayat, prayers were conducted at 6:30 AM. Madina Masjid Link Road saw prayers at 6:30 AM, while Shahi Masjid Hiran Maran held prayers at 6:45 AM. Other major mosques, including Purani Jama Masjid and Madrasa Mazahir Uloom Waqf, conducted their prayers at 7:00 AM.
City Qazi Nadeem Akhtar was among the prominent figures who arrived at Eidgah for prayers, joined by a large number of people.
Following the prayers, a group of people proceeded to Ghantaghar, where they raised the Palestinian flag and chanted slogans in solidarity with Palestine. Some individuals were seen wearing black bands on their hands as a mark of protest. The demonstration led to a brief disruption in the area, but the crowd dispersed quickly, and normalcy was restored within a short period.
MP Imran Masood was seen engaging in discussions with District Magistrate Manish Bansal regarding the situation in the city. Security personnel remained on high alert throughout the day to prevent any untoward incidents.
Additionally, a dog van was stationed near Eidgah to manage stray dogs in the vicinity, ensuring the safety of the large gathering.
The administration continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure peace and harmony during the ongoing Eid celebrations.
