Bandh in Dhar over Bhojshala issue

Dhar, Feb 19: Traffic was disrupted and shops remained closed in various parts of Dhar today as part of the bandh called by Hindu organisations to protest `high handedness` of the district administration during the Hindu Jagran Manch (HJM) agitation demanding opening of the locks of the disputed bhojshala yesterday. However, no untoward incident was reported from anywhere in the district, police said, adding prohibitory orders were in force in the district and a large number of police personnel have been deployed to maintain law and order. The bandh has been jointly called by HJM, VHP, BJP and allied organisations.

Police had foiled an attempt by Hjm activists yesterday to force their way into the disputed bhojshala-kamal moula mosque premises and arrested over 150 people. Prohibitory orders were imposed after a large crowd of HJM activists pelted stones at police and indulged in arson, forcing police to lathicharge and fire teargas shells.

Meanwhile, the district administration has also called for an all-party meeting today as directed by the state government following a letter from the Union Tourism and Culture Minister to discuss the vexed issue.

However, HJM and other allied organisations have decided not to attend the meeting.

Bureau Report