Muharram, Ghurti Rath Yatra celebrated amid tight security

Ranchi, Jul 6 (PTI) Muharram and Ghurti Rath Yatra, the return journey of Lord Jagannath, were observed with traditional fervour amid elaborate security arrangements in the Jharkhand capital on Sunday.

The Muharram was observed peacefully across the state, as the people from the Muslim community remembered their religious leader Hazrat Imam Hussain's martyrdom and took out Tazias, a miniature replica of a tomb, on the occasion.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren offered his salutation to the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain.

"The martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain conveys a message of brotherhood to humanity and inspires raising a voice against oppression," Soren posted on X.

Ahead of the Muharram procession, one person was killed and three others were injured due to electrocution during preparation for the procession in Giridih district on Sunday.

The incident took place when the top portion of Tazia, a miniature replica of the tomb of Imam Hussain, came in contact with a live wire, Giridih Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ramnivas Yadav said.

Adequate security arrangements, including deployment of drones and installation of CCTVs, were made across Jharkhand to ensure that Muharram is observed peacefully, a senior police officer said.

Drones, CCTVs and security personnel were deployed at strategic points to monitor the situation, he said.

In Ranchi, the administration declared Sunday a 'dry day' in Ranchi on the occasion of Muharram.

"All types of retail liquor shops, bars and clubs, including wholesale premises, all domestic and foreign liquor manufacturing plants have been ordered to remain closed in Ranchi district," an official release said.

In view of Muharram processions, regular vehicular movements have been restricted on several routes in Ranchi city from 10 am, the police posted on X.

"Adequate security arrangements were made across Ranchi city for Muharram.

The police and the administration are keeping an eye on every activity, including posts on social media platforms," Ranchi city SP Ajit Kumar said.

Meanwhile, the ritual of the return journey of Lord Jagannath with his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra from their 'Mausi Bari' (maternal aunt's house) was performed with traditional fervour and gaiety in Ranchi. PTI SAN BDC RG