New Delhi: It is learnt from reliable sources that the new BJP Delhi government denied permission for the annual "Holy Week Way of the Cross" from Old Delhi to the Delhi Archdiocese Cathedral.
The reason given by the police was security and traffic concerns, as the procession involves around five hundred people moving on the road, performing Jesus' 14 Stations of the Cross, which could disturb commuter traffic.
The history behind this is that Congress government Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit in 2013 gave permission for the first time, and the Kejriwal government allowed the peaceful yearly ceremony to continue.
Now, the BJP-led government under Madam Rekha has denied permission through the police. The denial of today’s ceremony was communicated late yesterday evening via an official endorsement.
The President of CAAD (Catholic Association of the Archdiocese of Delhi) expressed disappointment over what was perceived as an attack on faith. President A.C. Michael issued a press statement condemning the denial.