The Mandya district administration convened a peace meeting in the Deputy Commissioner’s office on Monday and appealed for peace and harmony among Hindu and Muslim communities ahead of Bakrid celebrations on May 28.Describing Bakrid as a festival that symbolises sacrifice and devotion, Deputy Commissioner of Mandya Kumar said the festival should be observed with peace and mutual harmony among different groups irrespective of caste and religion.While appealing to the Hindu and Muslim communities to maintain unity among them, he said the police department is always prepared to maintain law and order. The festival should be celebrated peacefully without allowing any untoward incidents, he said.No black markPointing out that maintenance of peace and law and order during the festivals is everyone’s responsibility, Dr. Kumar called upon the people to collectively ensure that no black mark falls on the district during Bakrid celebrations.He warned that strict action would be taken against those disturbing peace. Legal action would also be initiated against those spreading false information on social media, he added.Superintendent of Police V.J. Shobharani, who was also present on the occasion, warned that stern action would be taken against anyone attempting to disturb peace. She said leaders of various organisations had offered suggestions and, accordingly, all necessary precautionary arrangements had been made. Adequate security measures had also been put in place, she added.A statement issued by the district administration said that the leaders of Hindu and Muslim communities present at the meeting had assured to co-operate with the district administration and the Police Department in upholding the tradition of communal harmony.Deputy Superintendent of Police, Mandya, Lakshmi Narayan Prasad and leaders of Muslim and Hindu communities from the district were present at the meeting. Published - May 25, 2026 06:34 pm IST