The posters, which went viral on social media, were removed after Muslim community members lodged a formal complaint with the authorities
NEW DELHI – In a disturbing display of communal intolerance, signboards prohibiting Muslim entry were erected in several villages of Rajasthan’s Jhalawar district earlier this week. The posters, which went viral on social media, were removed on Monday (May 19) after Muslim community members lodged a formal complaint with the district Collector and Superintendent of Police.
The signboards were put up following communal violence sparked by the alleged murder of a local photographer, Shambhu Singh, by a Muslim resident on April 24. The violence targeted Muslim-owned businesses, with around 40-50 shops being looted, vandalised, and set ablaze by members of Hindutva groups.
Photographs of the controversial signboards on social media reveal their presence in Shivgarh, Badi Chowki, Dobra, and Garha villages in Jhalawar district. The signboards carried the message: “It has been decided by the entire community that Muslims are strictly prohibited from entering this village. Jai Shri Ram.”
According to a resident, Zaki Khan, the signboards were only removed after the Muslim community filed a complaint. Khan alleged that the authorities were in the know of the signboards but took no action until the complaint was lodged. When the police attempted to remove the boards, local Hindu residents clashed with them, leading to a standoff that lasted the entire day.
The local police initially downplayed the situation, stating that the villagers themselves had removed the signboards. However, residents disputed this claim, alleging that the police were lenient towards those involved in the violence and the elements behind the posters. Khan accused the authorities of allowing the rioters to act freely for several hours, resulting in significant damage to Muslim-owned properties.
“Though 40–50 people were named in FIRs based on video evidence and CCTV footage, no action has been taken,” he said.
Shahid Ahmed, another resident, described the atmosphere in the region as tense since the photographer’s murder. He expressed concern that the signboards pose serious challenges for Muslim hawkers and traders who travel through these villages, reflecting a growing Islamophobic climate in the country. Ahmed also criticised the police for inaction, claiming that none of those involved in attacking Muslim businesses were arrested.
The incident highlights the need for authorities to take prompt action against communal hatred and ensure that perpetrators of violence are held accountable. The Muslim community continues to face significant challenges in the region, and the authorities need to address these concerns and maintain communal harmony.
