Following alleged stone-pelting near a mosque, notices served to four structures and 20 non-vegetarian food joints; Muslims say actions feel selective, frightening, and linked to politics
NEW DELHI/CHOMU — Days after a dispute and alleged stone-pelting near a mosque at the Chomu bus stand, Muslim neighbourhoods in the town remain quiet and tense as the district administration moves ahead with notices and warnings of bulldozer action.
Officials have issued notices to four alleged illegal constructions and 20 slaughterhouses in Rajasthan’s Chomu. The notice gives a three-day deadline to remove stairs, ramps, platforms, and other structures said to be built on public land. Police and Special Task Force (STF) personnel have been deployed across sensitive points.
Residents say fear has spread after the notices were served. “Our lanes are empty. People are scared to step out,” said a local shopkeeper from a Muslim locality. “After the incident, the action has started only here. It feels like punishment without hearing us.”
According to the administration, the action follows complaints of encroachment and rule violations. A senior municipal official said, “The notices are part of a routine drive. Public roads were blocked, and traffic was affected. All notice holders have been given time to reply or remove the structures.”
The notices also cover non-vegetarian shops said to be operating without permission. Owners have been asked to respond within three days. Officials warned that machines would be used if the directions were ignored.
Many Muslim residents question the timing and focus of the drive. “Why now, and why only our areas?” asked a mosque committee member. “There was a dispute about iron railings at the mosque. Instead of calming things, this action has created panic.”
Police said the situation is under control. “Patrolling has been increased to prevent any trouble,” a senior police officer said. “Raids are on to find those named in the stone-pelting case.”
On the night of December 25, tension rose after a disagreement over installing iron railings at the mosque near the bus stand. Police intervened and later said peace was restored. Since then, markets have reopened in some parts of Chomu, though Muslim neighbourhoods remain subdued.
Community elders have appealed for fairness. “Law should be equal for all,” said a local resident. “If there are issues, talk to people. Fear will not bring peace.”
