In Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, local authorities have established a significant security presence to ensure the harmonious conduct of the Rang Ekadashi 'Chaupai procession' coinciding with Friday prayers. With the deployment of three companies of the Rapid Action Force (RRF), two platoons of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and police from around a dozen stations, the administration is prepared to address any potential unrest. This year, the procession, which is associated with the festival of Holi, will pass near the controversial Jama Masjid and reach the Suryakund Tirtha, raising concerns given the area's history of communal tensions.

Considering past incidents of violence, the Sambhal administration is keen on preventing any disorder during these celebrations. The route taken by the procession is viewed as highly sensitive from a communal perspective, particularly near the Jama Masjid where significant police presence is ensured. Surveillance measures, including CCTV cameras and drones, are planned to monitor the activities of any disruptive elements effectively. Furthermore, the local police's responsibility is to ensure that the procession, marked by vibrant colors associated with Holi, proceeds without any disturbances, highlighting the delicate balance between cultural celebration and communal harmony that local authorities must navigate.

As community members prepare to celebrate Rang Ekadashi, the local administration's approach underscores the tensions that can arise in traditionally sensitive locales. The proactive security measures showcase a commitment to maintaining peace while allowing residents to partake in their cultural traditions. However, this ongoing vigilance also reflects broader issues of communal relations within Indian society, which can be prone to unrest during overlapping religious events. Achieving a peaceful outcome will be crucial, not only for the festivities themselves but also for the future dynamics of community interaction in Sambhal.