13 locations earmarked for namaz in Gurugram

Tribune News Service

Gurugram, May 10

The controversy over offering namaz seems to have subsided for now, with Muslim groups agreeing to offer namaz at 13 locations here.

At a three-hour-long meeting with Police Commissioner Sandeep Khirwar on Thursday, the Muslim groups, which had sought protection and permission for prayer meetings at 15 places, were asked to restrict namaz to 13 locations.

The police did not issue a list of locations, but sources said the approved sites included Tau Devi Lal Stadium, a plot behind Medanta Hospital, a ground near Leisure Valley Park, IMT-Manesar, HUDA ground in Sector 5 and an HSIIDC plot behind Oberoi Hotel.

“The police were in touch with Hindu and Muslim groups. Muslims were asked to submit a list of open spaces. They came up with a list of 15 places. The police reduced it to 13 and assured protection. Protesting groups were asked not to disrupt prayer meetings and they agreed,” police spokesperson Ravinder Kumar said.

The police force, meanwhile, has been put on high alert. The approved sites will be heavily guarded. 

Muslim leaders issued an advisory to members of the community to stick to the 13 sites or offer prayers in nearby mosques or homes.

“We have been assured security, but everybody is scared. So, we have issued an advisory through social media to ensure that nobody organises prayer meeting other than the 13 sites. Those who can’t come to any of the approved sites have been asked to visit nearest mosques or pray at homes,” said a local imam on the condition of anonymity.

Meanwhile, the Sanyukt Hindu Sangharsh Samiti promised not to create ruckus on Friday if prayer meetings were restricted to the 13 sites.

“From 90 sites to 13, the matter has almost reached its logical end. If namaz is offered at places other than the approved ones, the administration will be responsible for the consequences,” said samiti’s senior leader Vikram Singh.