Saharanpur, September 5 (Daily Kiran) : Political tensions have escalated in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, following the demolition of an allegedly illegal mosque. Opposition parties have criticized the government’s actions, labeling them as violations of both law and the constitution.
Congress leader Asim Waqar expressed his concerns, questioning the district magistrate about the rationale behind the mosque’s demolition. The magistrate stated that the mosque was built on government land. Waqar argued that if this is the basis for the demolition, a comprehensive list of all religious sites on government land in the district should be released. His inquiry extends beyond just parks or roads to encompass all places of worship.
Waqar further stated that if officials are sworn to uphold the constitution, they cannot selectively target a mosque for demolition based on its location. He emphasized that the Indian Constitution respects all religious sites. However, he believes some individuals aim to reignite Hindu-Muslim tensions ahead of the upcoming elections, diverting attention from critical development issues.
Senior Congress leader Rajendra Pal Gautam condemned the demolition, calling it shameful. He remarked that the mosque had existed since before India gained independence. Gautam accused officials of acting unlawfully, under pressure from BJP leaders, and asserted that no one has the right to destroy another’s place of worship or hurt religious sentiments.
Former MP Haji Fazlur Rahman criticized the current government for allegedly targeting Muslims. He claimed that the government often undertakes actions to please its supporters while ignoring widespread issues like unemployment, inflation, and farmers’ struggles. He highlighted that India’s democracy thrives on diversity and that citizens view leaders based on their contributions to the nation rather than their religion.
Rahman characterized the demolition as part of the BJP’s electoral agenda, noting that the party’s rapid rise since 2014 is now facing a significant decline. He pointed out that the BJP has historically gained power by dividing communities, and now people from all backgrounds feel their issues have been exploited.
He also mentioned that many individuals attempted to reach out to the administration to save the mosque, which had initially assured them that only possession would be taken and that it would not be demolished. Interestingly, the case filed was related to possession, not demolition. Despite this, the administration proceeded with the demolition, which Rahman labeled a grave violation of law and the constitution.
Muslim cleric Khalid Rashid Firangi Mahali also condemned the mosque’s demolition, stating that it has hurt the religious sentiments of the Muslim community.
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