Members of Hindu Jagran Manch protest near Nakshatra Van on Saturday. Pix: Manik Bose

Ranchi, Feb, 14: Celebrating love in public was not an easy affair as members of the Hindu Jagran Manch (HJM) harassed couples across the state capital.

Around seven couples who were celebrating Valentine’s Day at Nakshatra Van were “caught” by HJM members. While boys were made to do sit-ups, the girls were let off with a warning — moving around with boys was not in accordance with the Indian culture.

Moral policing was on at the Sidho-Kanhu Park, too. Several couples were chased away here. And many were even prepared for the outcome.

As soon as HJM members entered the park, the couples separated or huddled together as if they were on a picnic. The trick saved them.

Ironically, both Nakshatra Van and Sidho-Kanhu Park are only minutes away from Raj Bhavan, the seat of power in the state during the President's rule. In fact, Nakshatra Van officially belongs to the Raj Bhavan.

Ranchi senior superintendent of police Sampat Meena said the district administration had deployed adequate number of security personnel at various parks, shopping malls and others such public places to maintain law and order on Valentine’s Day. Heavy security arrangements were also made at Rock Garden, Dada Dadi Park and Aqua World Park among others places.

However, despite tight security arrangements, the so-called morale police burnt Valentine’s Day gifts and cards at Albert Ekka Chowk, shouted slogans against the westernisation of Indian culture.

Meena, however, added that the group staged a peaceful demonstration only.