By Team Clarion
VARANASI — Police have launched an investigation after a poster calling on people to “protect Lat Bhairav Mosque” was found pasted on a wall near the Lat Bhairav temple complex in Varanasi on Friday, raising concerns over a possible attempt to create communal tension in the area.
According to police, the poster carried the message “Janata Utho, Hifazat Karo Lat Bhairav Masjid Ki…” (“People, rise and protect the Lat Bhairav Mosque”). The poster was subsequently removed, and police are examining CCTV footage from the area to identify those responsible.
The incident came to light during Friday prayers when a devotee visiting the Lat Bhairav temple reportedly noticed the poster near the temple premises. The devotee recorded a video of it and informed members of the temple management committee.
The Shri Kapal Bhairav, also known as Lat Bhairav, Management Committee subsequently informed the Adampur police. Police personnel reached the location and removed the poster.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (Kotwali) Vijay Pratap Singh said CCTV footage from the surrounding area was being examined to determine who had put up the poster and to establish the circumstances behind the incident.
Temple committee president and municipal councillor described the matter as serious and alleged that the poster was intended to create tension in the locality.
The area around the Lat Bhairav temple and the adjoining mosque in Adampur is regarded by authorities as sensitive. Police personnel, along with units of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), are deployed in the area as part of security arrangements.
Police officials said the investigation was focused on identifying those responsible for putting up the poster and determining their motive. CCTV recordings from locations around the temple and mosque are being reviewed as part of the inquiry.
Adampur Inspector Vimal Mishra said that, as of Friday afternoon, no written complaint seeking registration of an FIR had been submitted at the police station.
Police have not yet announced the identification or detention of any suspects. The investigation remains underway.
This story was originally published in clarionindia.net.
