The traditional *Bindoli* ceremony was carried out without incident, thanks to the deployment of around 200 police personnel
In a significant display of proactive measures, a Dalit groom’s wedding procession, or *baraat*, was conducted under heavy police protection in Rajasthan’s Ajmer district on Tuesday. The step was taken after the bride’s family expressed concerns about potential opposition from upper-caste locals in Lavera village.
The traditional *Bindoli* ceremony was carried out without incident, thanks to the deployment of around 200 police personnel. Groom Vijay Regar rode a mare to Lavera village to marry Aruna Khorwal amidst tight security arrangements.
Aruna’s family had sought administrative assistance, fearing backlash due to their wish to include the horse-mounted procession as part of their wedding traditions. Historically, Dalit families in some areas have faced resistance for such ceremonies, making their concerns understandable.
“A family had raised concern with the police that they wanted to take out a wedding procession and perhaps there could be some trouble. A meeting was held in the village as part of the preparation. The villagers also cooperated and said there would be no problem. The wedding procession was taken out under police protection,” said Vandita Rana, Superintendent of Police, Ajmer.
The family had also sought help from local activists. Narayan Khorwal, Aruna’s father, approached Ramesh Chand Bansal, Secretary of the Manav Vikas Avam Adhikar Kendra Sansthan. Bansal subsequently wrote to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and worked with local authorities to ensure the procession’s safe passage.
“If we remain scared then how things will work? We are an educated family. In the past, there have been untoward incidents during wedding processions, so we had approached the police and activists,” Narayan Khorwal explained.
The administration acted swiftly, deploying officers from multiple police stations to maintain order. The robust security arrangements provided reassurance to the family and ensured the event took place without any disruptions.
In keeping with the family’s cautious approach, they chose to forgo loud music and firecrackers, further minimising the risk of any potential friction during the procession.
The peaceful conduct of the ceremony marks an encouraging step towards ensuring equality and safeguarding the traditions of marginalised communities. It also highlights the importance of community cooperation and proactive intervention by authorities in addressing social concerns.
