Police intervene to placate VHP members and investigate allegations of mistrust
NEW DELHI/JAIPUR – A controversy erupted in Sanganer town in Rajsthan’s Jaipur District, when a shop, named after a Hindu deity, came under scrutiny because its actual owner was a Muslim. The incident highlights the continuing suspicion and communal tensions some business owners face despite respecting all faiths.
The shop in question, “Shri Durgesh Departmental Store,” is located in the Pratapnagar area of Sanganer. Inside the shop, pictures of Lord Ganesh and Lord Balaji were displayed, reflecting the shopkeeper’s respect for Hindu traditions. However, when a customer made a payment via mobile scanner, the name Muzaffar Ahmed Qureshi appeared, prompting some local people to question the shop’s ownership.
A crowd quickly gathered, and members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) also reached the scene. The atmosphere turned tense as the public demanded clarification on why a Muslim name was linked to a shop with a Hindu identity.
Police arrived promptly to pacify the situation. Officers asked the shopkeeper to produce identity documents and shop registration papers. The shopkeeper explained, “The shop is named after my aunt, Durgesh, who had passed away. That is why it is called ‘Shri Durgesh Departmental Store.’ Her documents are not available now.”
Muzaffar Ahmed Qureshi, the shopkeeper, emphasised his respect for Hindu traditions. He said, “I respect Hindus, and that is why pictures of Ganeshji and Balaji are in the shop. I even believe in these gods and goddesses. If needed, I will put a Tilak on my forehead too.”
Despite these clarifications, some VHP members continued to create a ruckus. The police ensured all necessary documents were collected and assured the public that a thorough investigation would follow. Gradually, the crowd dispersed, and normalcy was restored.
Local residents familiar with Muzaffar praised his approach to maintaining harmony. A neighbour commented, “Muzaffar has always treated everyone with respect. It is unfortunate that misunderstandings like this still occur. He honours Hindu traditions while being a practicing Muslim. There is nothing wrong with that.”
This incident sheds light on the challenges Muslim shopkeepers face in areas where religious identity is closely scrutinised. It also raises questions over communal trust and the need for mutual understanding.
Police are investigating the matter thoroughly to ensure that tensions do not escalate further.
“Business owners should be able to operate without fear, regardless of their religion,” a senior police officer said. “We will make sure that justice is served and peace maintained.”
The Sanganer community, once calm, is reflecting on the need to respect diverse religious identities while allowing business to flourish without bias.
