Authorities have increased security at the tomb to protect communal harmony; the tomb was desecrated earlier in August this year when a Hindu mob vandalised the site
FATEHPUR — A tense situation unfolded at the tomb of Nawab Abdul Samad in the Abu Nagar area of this Uttar Pradesh city on Tuesday, when women linked to a Hindu organisation attempted to conduct worship in a manner resembling the Babri Masjid incidents.
Their actions sparked unrest, compelling the police to intervene and file a case against 20 individuals.
According to local reports, the women arrived at the historic tomb, popularly known as Maqbara Mangi, on the occasion of Dev Diwali, claiming the site to be a temple. They raised slogans and began performing rituals, ignoring administrative warnings. The police, fearing a breach of peace, stepped in to prevent the illegal activity.
“The women forcibly tried to perform worship at the tomb, which is a protected historic site,” said a senior police officer. “When we tried to stop them, they misbehaved with the authorities and obstructed our work. We have registered an FIR against 20 women to ensure law and order is maintained.”
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic. “They were shouting slogans and performing aarti at the tomb,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous. “It was clear that the act was meant to provoke and create tension in the area.”
The administration immediately increased security at the site to prevent further disruption. Muslim community leaders emphasised the importance of respecting the tomb and adhering to legal directives. “The tomb of Nawab Abdul Samad is a historic and religiously significant site for Muslims,” stated Maulana Ahmed Qureshi, a local religious leader. “Court orders regarding such sites must be respected to maintain communal harmony.”
Meanwhile, representatives of the Hindu organisation defended their actions, calling worship at the site their “fundamental right.” They claimed that the tomb was historically a temple dedicated to Shiva, echoing previous assertions by right-wing groups.
It is not the first time the tomb has faced attacks. On 11 August this year, a mob reportedly linked to Bajrang Dal, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Hindu Mahasabha, and Math Mandir Sanrakshan Sangharsh Samiti, vandalised the site. Videos circulated online showed the group hoisting saffron flags and attempting to perform puja at the tomb.
“This repeated vandalisation of the tomb demonstrates a pattern of communal provocation,” said Zafar Hussain, a local historian. “The authorities must ensure that such historic Muslim heritage sites are protected against deliberate attacks that threaten peace.”
The police have appealed to both communities to maintain calm and avoid actions that could escalate tensions. Security personnel remain deployed at the tomb, monitoring the situation closely.
“Communal harmony is fragile, and incidents like these can spark widespread unrest,” noted a senior government official. “We urge everyone to respect historic sites and follow legal procedures rather than taking matters into their own hands.”
As the situation remains tense, the Fatehpur administration continues to work with local police and community leaders to ensure the protection of the tomb and the safety of residents in the area.
