Shimla, October 29, 2024: The Himachal Pradesh High Court has ordered local authorities to enforce strict measures for a peaceful Diwali celebration in Village Gaunkhar, Shimla District.
The decision was issued by Justice Sandeep Sharma. It addresses a long-standing dispute between residents of Gaunkhar and the neighboring Village Dhar Chandna in Chopal sub-division of Shimla district.
In recent years, tensions have flared during Diwali, leading to disturbances in Gaunkhar. Padam Sharma and other Gaunkhar residents filed a petition expressing concerns over the possible breach of peace.
They reported that residents of Dhar Chandna have previously entered Gaunkhar during Diwali, allegedly causing disruptions and even violence.
The petitioners requested that the court prevent Dhar Chandna residents from entering their village during Diwali.
They cited a 2020 agreement, reached with the help of village elders, in which both villages agreed to celebrate Diwali separately.
However, the agreement was broken last year when Dhar Chandna residents reportedly entered Gaunkhar and engaged in violent behavior.
The court has now directed the Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police, Shimla, to enforce the 2020 order.
This order, issued by the SDM Chopal, prohibits Dhar Chandna residents from visiting Gaunkhar during Diwali.
To maintain peace, the court has mandated that adequate police personnel be deployed in Gaunkhar during the celebrations.
The Additional District Magistrate (Law & Order) has confirmed a request for 40 police officers to be deployed.
Public notices will be displayed at panchayat offices in both villages, reminding residents of the court’s directive.
The Deputy Commissioner and Superintendent of Police are tasked with ensuring full compliance.
This move is intended to allow both villages to celebrate Diwali peacefully and uphold the earlier agreement.
