KHODA ON HIGH ALERT: Heavy Security Deployed Ahead of Friday Namaz Amid Surya Case Tension

A tense situation prevailed in Ghaziabad’s Khoda area on Friday as authorities deployed heavy security arrangements in view of the first Friday prayers following the Surya murder case and subsequent encounter developments. The administration has placed the region under strict surveillance amid concerns of possible unrest. Officials confirmed that more than 1,000 security personnel, including local police, paramilitary forces, and special units, have been deployed across sensitive points in the area. Drone surveillance has also been activated to monitor movement and ensure that Friday prayers are conducted peacefully without any disruption. The Surya Pratap Chauhan murder case, which dates back to May 28, had already triggered violence and tension in the locality. The situation escalated further after the main accused, Asad, was killed in a police encounter, while his associates were arrested. Since then, the area has remained under close administrative watch. On Friday, reports indicated that prayers at local mosques, including the prominent Noorani Masjid, are being organized in multiple shifts to avoid overcrowding and prevent any gatherings on roads, following instructions from authorities. Officials stated that this arrangement has been made to ensure law and order and to facilitate peaceful observance of religious practices. Security concerns were heightened after calls from certain groups opposing the conduct of Friday prayers in the area. In response, authorities placed several individuals under preventive detention or house arrest, including local leaders associated with Hindu organizations, as a precautionary measure to prevent escalation of tensions. Police officials reiterated that the priority is to maintain peace and ensure that religious activities proceed without obstruction. Local residents and mosque committees have also cooperated with the administration by agreeing to staggered prayer timings to reduce crowding.