Tensions flared in the Loni area of Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, where members of the Hindu Rakshak Dal gathered to recite the Hanuman Chalisa despite heavy police deployment and extensive barricading. Organizers had called for a gathering at Rashid Ali Gate, but law enforcement agencies sealed surrounding routes and set up multiple checkpoints to restrict movement. Bypassing the heavy security blockade, workers sat down about 50 meters away from the gate near Salam Hotel and performed the Hanuman Chalisa recitation. During the gathering, the group officially declared that Rashid Ali Gate would henceforth be known as 'Bajrang Dwar' or 'Hanuman Dwar'.
Heavy Police Barricades and Peaceful Chanting
Leaders of the Hindu Rakshak Dal stated that their initial objective was to offer prayers peacefully. Authorities had mobilized significant security forces across the neighborhood to prevent any escalation. Due to the extensive lockdown of the streets, several supporters faced obstacles while attempting to reach the designated spot.
A senior official of the group stated that once police blocked their path, they avoided confrontation, sat down 50 meters prior to the gate, and recited the Hanuman Chalisa twice in an organized manner, emphasizing that their grievance was not with the police or administration.
Allegations of Assault Against Activist Sumit
The organization leveled serious accusations against an individual named Haji Salman, claiming he uploaded provocative videos on social media to disrupt communal harmony and issue a direct challenge. According to the group, when a lone worker named Sumit visited the area, Haji Salman and his associates subjected him to verbal abuse, physical assault, and robbed him of his mobile phone and gold chain. Police records identify Haji Salman as a wanted criminal carrying a cash reward of 25,000 rupees announced by the local administration.
Declaration to Rename the Gate to Bajrang Dwar
Making a major announcement, the Hindu Rakshak Dal asserted that the name 'Rashid Ali Gate' no longer holds any validity for them. They claimed the original title was chosen arbitrarily by certain individuals rather than being an official administrative designation. The group stated they are connected with 12 to 13 surrounding villages and plan to hold village panchayats to ensure the location is permanently recognized as 'Hanuman Dwar' or 'Bajrang Dwar'.
Demands for Arrest and Foreign Threat Allegations
The outfit demanded the immediate arrest of Haji Salman and his accomplices by law enforcement agencies. Furthermore, they claimed to have received continuous threats from foreign numbers based in countries like Pakistan and Portugal, warning that their families would be targeted. Warning authorities, the group stated that if strict measures are not taken against such miscreants, they will stand united to protect Hindu dignity and respond firmly to any provocation.
Cab Driver Attacked and Statement from ACP
Addressing the broader situation, Loni ACP Ram Kishan explained that after the Hindu Rakshak Dal members dispersed from Rashid Ali Gate, a cab driver was passing through the area. According to the driver, a group of local Muslim youths intercepted his vehicle, noticed a sacred thread and metal bracelet on his wrist, and subsequently pelted his vehicle with stones while assaulting him. Police are currently investigating all aspects of the incident.
