NUH, HARYANA:Nestled amid the breathtaking beauty of the Aravali hill range, the historic Shiva Temple in the serene village of Nalhar found itself at the heart of communal clashes on the fateful day of July 31. The temple’s grandeur stood amidst the lush greenery, offering a serene and picturesque backdrop, defying the mayhem it was witness to just a couple of days ago.
On July 31, pilgrims had gathered for the “shobha yatra,” unaware of the violent turn that lay ahead. Stone-pelting marred the serenity, leaving scars on hearts. The temple stands resilient, a reminder to preserve peace and harmony.
Deepak Sharma, the main priest with years of service, narrated the unsettling scenario outside the temple, which resulted in the devotees seeking shelter inside the premises of the temple. He voiced the necessity for heightened temple security.
Recalling the incident, Sharma shared, “I was inside the ‘math’ when the attack happened outside the temple. Some pilgrims, after offering prayers, went outside but quickly returned, stating that the situation was tense. They sought shelter inside the temple.”
The pilgrims found relief only when the police arrived at 6 pm, ensuring their safe exit. Sharma stressed the need for permanent protection and a police post to prevent future incidents. Explaining its religious significance, Sharma says, “The Pandavs visited this temple with Lord Krishna when they were living in agyatvas (exile). The temple’s Shivling has the symbols of Lord Shiva’s family like Trishul, Janeu, Ganga, Om, Swastika, and a Naag Devta, inscribed on it – which is a rare sight.”
The violence erupted during the VHP’s yatra, with stone-pelting and arson outside the temple. Approximately 2,500 people were trapped, later evacuated with additional police help.
Amidst the stunning Aravali Hills, the targeted temple allegedly faced attackers hiding in the hills, firing upon it. Videos emerged of pilgrims seeking refuge behind parked cars during the ‘Shobha Yatra’.
Meanwhile, four days after the communal violence in Nuh that claimed four lives and injured 50 people, the government has formed three separate SITs (Special Investigation Teams) to investigate cases of rioting, murder, and provocation on social media.
A total of 45 FIRs have been registered and 139 people have been arrested so far.