The annual Jodi Maramma Jathra at Paduvarahalli that has a history of over 500 years will be celebrated in a grand manner and the Police Department will provide all necessary facilities and security to make the event successful, said Deputy Commissioner of Police Dr. H.T. Shekar.

He was addressing a peace meeting between the Police, residents of Paduvarahalli and the Jodi Maramma Temple Trust at the Basaveshwara Kalyana Mantap yesterday. He said that the historic nature of the Jathra will be retained and measures will be taken to ensure that the event passes off peacefully. The Jathra will be held from Feb. 25 to Feb. 28.

The peace meeting was held in the wake of two murders that occurred at Paduvarahalli that had terrorised the villagers. Also many youths were rounded off and arrested for the crime. Following the murders, the Police had kept a round-the-clock vigil in the area and had frequently conducted searches on the houses of the suspects and relatives.

Taking advantage of the Police action, some miscreants had spread rumours in the area that the Police will not allow the Jathra this year. Yesterday’s meeting dispelled the rumours with the Police machinery assuring all help for the smooth conduct of the Jathra. The DCP appealed to the villagers not to heed to the rumours and start preparing for the event.

He said that the Jodi Maramma Jathra attracts thousands of people from in and around Mysuru and the residents should be vigilant on mischief mongers who will create trouble. “You must watch out for such people and alert the Police. Stringent action will be taken against them,” he assured. He also warned the youths of Paduvarahalli not to indulge in anti-social activities like gambling and eve-teasing in the name of the festival. He has asked them not to indulge in group fights.

Elaborate security will be ensured on all days of the event with regular Police beats and patrolling. Forces will be stationed at main areas to maintain law and order, the DCP said. Police will keep tabs on those residing in the area and whoever comes from outside. Also, persons with criminal background and those with rowdy-sheets in their names will be under watch, he added.

Narasimharaja Assistant Commissioner of Police Umesh G. Shet said that the prime responsibility of maintaining peace was with villagers. “We will extend all help,” he assured and requested the villagers to inform the Police about suspicious persons and their activities.

Jayalakshmipuram Inspector C.M. Ravindra, Jodi Maramma Temple Trust President Malali Mahadevaswamy, Secretary Bhyrappa and others were present.