Delhi on high alert ahead of Eid; heavy security in Dwarka amid Uttam Nagar tension

The Tarun murder case had led to protests by some groups, during which two vehicles linked to the accused were set on fire.

New Delhi: With Eid-ul-Fitr a day away, security has been stepped up across Delhi's Dwarka district, as the adjoining West Delhi's Uttam Nagar area is still tense after the March 4 killing.

Police said more than 100 pickets have been set up, with personnel deployed on rooftops and at key junctions to maintain a close watch on movement in sensitive pockets.

Security arrangements have been further tightened around the Uttam Nagar East metro station following directions from the Delhi High Court to ensure adequate preparedness in view of apprehensions of unrest during the festival.

A senior police officer said elaborate arrangements are in place to ensure that celebrations pass off peacefully.

"We have made detailed deployment plans and are ready to respond swiftly to any situation," the officer said.

According to police, additional forces have been stationed in Hastsal village, where the killing took place, and nearby areas, with joint deployment of Delhi Police and central armed forces at strategic locations.

Tarun (26) died after being injured in a clash between two neighbouring families in JJ Colony during Holi on March 4. The altercation, police said, was triggered after a water balloon thrown by a girl from one family accidentally hit a woman from the other.

The incident had led to protests by some groups, during which two vehicles linked to the accused were set on fire. Police have so far apprehended 14 people, including two minors, in connection with the case.

Police said security focus has been sharpened around mosques, Eidgahs and other places of congregation where large crowds are expected. Area domination exercises, including foot patrols and vehicle checks, are being carried out regularly.

Monitoring of social media has also been intensified to track and curb the spread of inflammatory content, police said, adding that several objectionable posts have already been flagged and acted upon.

Areas with mixed populations have been categorised as sensitive and are under constant watch. Apart from ground deployment, police teams have been positioned at elevated points in select locations to enhance surveillance.

As part of outreach efforts, flag marches have been conducted in several localities and will continue during Eid to instil confidence among residents.

However, unease persists among locals.

Pradeep Shukla, president of the Uttam Nagar RWA, said the visible security presence has brought a sense of control, but anxiety remains.

"There is heavy barricading, and movement has reduced. It feels unusually quiet. People are still worried, but we are hoping things remain peaceful," he said.