Threat highlights tensions surrounding the historical site as legal proceedings continue
Team Clarion
AJMER – The Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Dargah, a revered Sufi shrine, has become the centre of controversy amidst claims by Hindu organisations that a Shiva temple exists beneath it. The matter was brought to the lower court and was heard on Friday. During the proceedings, the lawyer representing the Muslim side, Moin Farooq Hussain, reportedly received a death threat, escalating tensions further.
The threat was allegedly made by an individual claiming to be a journalist. Speaking about the incident, Farooq Hussain stated, “While leaving the courtroom after the debate, a person outside threatened me with death, saying I would be shot if I continued to attend court hearings.”
Hindu organisations have petitioned the court to investigate their claims, which has reignited debates over religious sites and their historical status. The Muslim lawyer, who travelled from Bengaluru to represent his side, raised concerns about the threat in court. “This is not just an attack on me but an attempt to intimidate those defending their religious rights,” he said.
The incident comes amid heightened sensitivity around the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991, which mandates maintaining the status quo of religious sites as of 15 August 1947, barring Ayodhya. However, last year, the Supreme Court allowed a survey of the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi, stating that the act does not bar determining the religious character of a site.
Local authorities have initiated an investigation to identify the individual who issued the threat. Ajmer police have assured that strict action will be taken. Farooq Hussain confirmed that complaints will be lodged with senior officials, including the Superintendent of Police and District Magistrate.
“This is a grave issue, and the safety of individuals involved in such cases must be ensured,” he added.