Land dispute leads to protests by Muslim families after threats and intimidation from goons
Team Clarion
ALIGARH – A land dispute in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, has sparked widespread fear and unrest among Muslim families, with over 60 households now seeking to relocate due to intimidation and threats. On February 17, affected families along Chhara Sakra Road in the Dadu police station area took to posting signs on their homes that read, “This house is for sale” and “Movement due to fear of goons,” in protest of what they describe as illegal occupation and harassment.
The dispute revolves around a piece of land that was purchased by Jamil, a local resident, from one Inderjeet approximately 36 years ago. Jamil built a shop and a shed for his animals on the property, only to later discover that Umesh Yadav, a resident of a nearby village, had fraudulently transferred ownership of the land. The matter was brought to court, and Jamil filed a case in response. Despite a court order issued on January 19 directing the maintenance of law and order in the area, Jamil claims that attempts have continued to seize his property.
“Despite the court’s orders, I have been facing constant pressure to vacate the house,” said Jamil. “These goons have threatened my family and me, making it unsafe for us to stay here. We had no option but to protest.”
On the other hand, Umesh Yadav insists that he lawfully purchased the property from Inderjeet on March 14, 2023, and alleges that Jamil has unlawfully occupied the land. The court ruled in favour of Umesh on January 29, but this decision has only fueled tensions.
As tensions escalated, on February 17, more than 60 Muslim families in the area took to posting posters on their homes, expressing their fear and frustration. The protest gained momentum as women and elderly people joined the demonstration, highlighting the growing sense of insecurity among the Muslim families.
“We cannot live in peace any longer,” said Fatima, a local woman who participated in the protest. “We are afraid for our children’s safety. If the authorities are not able to protect us, we will have to leave.”
The situation was further complicated by the involvement of external parties. According to a complaint filed by a member of the Muslim community, one of the individuals involved in the land dispute posed as a journalist and collected Rs 1,500 to have the protest posters distributed. This individual allegedly started threatening the complainant after the police removed the posters. The complainant’s allegations have led to the registration of a case against three individuals, with two additional suspects yet to be identified.
“The situation has been manipulated by certain elements trying to create unrest,” said Mahesh Kumar, the Circle Officer of Chhara. “These individuals deliberately instigated the public and tried to spoil the peaceful atmosphere of the area. We are ensuring that law and order is maintained, and strict action will be taken against those who disrupt peace.”
Despite the police intervention to remove the posters after approximately four hours, the atmosphere remains tense. The local authorities have formed a special investigation team to handle the case and ensure peace in the region.
“One of our key priorities is to maintain peace and order in this sensitive situation,” said a senior police officer. “No one will be allowed to take the law into their own hands, and we will take stern action against anyone attempting to provoke violence or unrest.”
The dispute has highlighted deeper concerns about the safety and security of Muslim families in the area, with many feeling that they are not receiving the protection they deserve. Some have expressed a desire to relocate to safer areas, as they believe their grievances are being ignored.
“We are left with no choice but to move,” said Ahmed, another affected resident. “We fear for our lives and the safety of our children. It is heartbreaking that after years of living in this neighbourhood, we are now forced to leave due to fear and intimidation.”
As the investigation continues and the authorities try to resolve the matter, the plight of these Muslim families remains unresolved, with many left feeling abandoned by the system meant to protect them. The incident has raised important questions about the protection of minority communities in the face of growing threats and intimidation, as well as the role of local authorities in maintaining peace and justice.
While the legal battle over the land continues, the families are left hoping for a resolution that will allow them to live without fear and restore their sense of safety and security.
