Hindu organisations claim illegal building activity at the seminary; administration urged to act against those disturbing peace
NEW DELHI – Peace and tranquillity in the NEB neighbourhood of Alwar city in Rajasthan have been disrupted as political and religious tensions rise over allegations of illegal construction at a local madrasa.
The controversy began when former BJP MLA Banwarilal Singhal, along with members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, submitted a memorandum to the District Collector accusing the madrasa management of encroaching on land under a stay order by the Urban Improvement Trust (UIT).
Singhal said, “Illegal construction is being done in violation of the law, which shows the administration’s inaction.” He called on authorities to take strict measures against the madrasa management for allegedly disregarding the stay order.
However, this move has raised questions among local communities and political observers, especially given the wider context of similar exercises across BJP-ruled states such as Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Assam, and Madhya Pradesh. In many of these states, Hindu organisations like the VHP and Bajrang Dal have protested against Muslim religious sites, often with strong political backing.
The memorandum submitted in Alwar is viewed by many as part of a broader pattern that risks increasing communal tensions.
Sher Mohammad, patron of the Meo Panchayat Board and Sadar of District Meo Panchayat, spoke to reporters and firmly denied the allegations. “This is a politically motivated attempt to spread religious tension in society,” he said. “The land of the madrasa was allotted through proper procedures by the UIT, and taxes are paid regularly.”
According to Sher Mohammad, the construction work cited in the memorandum was merely the repair of some domes that had become dilapidated, and this work had been underway for three months before being halted by police orders. He questioned why the issue was raised only now. “Bringing up this matter after three months is clearly a conspiracy to disturb peace,” he added.
Sher Mohammad appealed to the administration, saying, “If there is any illegal construction anywhere, we are ready to cooperate fully with the authorities to resolve the matter.”
He also highlighted the peaceful nature of the Muslim community, saying, “We believe in peace and brotherhood. The administration should take strict action against those who try to mislead society on religious grounds so that communal harmony is not harmed.”
Residents in the NEB area expressed concern over the protests escalating tensions. One resident, Mohammad Yusuf, said, “We have lived peacefully for years. This sudden accusation feels like an attempt to create unrest where there was none.”
The District Collector’s office has acknowledged receipt of the memorandum but has not yet issued a formal response. Officials have stated that they will investigate the claims thoroughly to ensure the law is upheld while maintaining communal peace.
This incident comes at a time when communal harmony in various parts of the country is under strain. Experts warn that political and religious groups must exercise caution and avoid actions that could incite unrest.
Human rights activist Farah Khan commented, “Communal harmony is delicate and should not be compromised for political gains. Allegations must be backed by clear evidence, and authorities should act impartially.”
As the situation unfolds in Alwar, the administration faces the challenge of balancing legal enforcement with the maintenance of peace in a sensitive environment.
Sher Mohammad concluded with a call to all communities to stay united: “We ask everyone to keep calm and not fall prey to those trying to divide us in the name of religion.”
