Mosques covered with tarpaulin, strict security in place for Shahjahanpur's 'Laat Saheb' Holi

'Laat Saheb' Holi procession here have been covered with tarpaulins and a strict security measure has been put in place ahead of the festival of colours which coincides with the Friday prayers. Following an 18th-century tradition, Holi in Shahjahanpur begins with revellers hurling footwear at a man impersonating 'Laat Saheb' — a British Lord — seated on a bullock cart.
Barricades have been installed along the procession route and several CCTV cameras have been installed by the local administration.
«There are 18 Holi processions in the city, including the two major 'Laat Saheb' processions. To ensure security, the larger procession has been divided into three zones and eight sectors, with around 100 magistrates deployed,» Superintendent of Police Rajesh S told PTI.
Moreover, police have taken preventive action against 2,423 people to deter potential troublemakers, he said.
«The security deployment includes 10 police circle officers, 250 sub-inspectors, around 1,500 police personnel and two companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC),» the SP added.

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Warning that no one will be allowed to take the law into their hands, the police officer said, «We urge everyone to celebrate Holi peacefully. Our police force will keep a close watch on miscreants and the entire event will be monitored live.»
Municipal Commissioner Vipin Kumar Mishra said, «We have installed around 350 CCTV and still cameras along the procession route. Additionally, about 20 mosques on the route have been covered with tarpaulin so that these are not stained by colours.»
Barricades have also been placed near mosques and electrical transformers for safety, he said.
«Two tractor trolleys will accompany the procession to collect the