No formal complaints have been lodged yet, but civil rights groups are considering legal action
NEW DELHI — Taking advantage of the increased hostilities against Muslims in the aftermath of last month’s Pahalgam terror attack, several village councils (Gram Panchayats) in Maharashtra’s Mulshi tehsil, including Ghotawade, Piranhut, Wadki, and Lavale, have barred non-local Muslims from offering prayers in village mosques, especially on Fridays.
This decision is seen as part of a broader effort to target and marginalise Muslims nationwide and has sparked anger online and within the Muslim community, with many calling it discriminatory and unconstitutional.
In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, the Muslim community has faced increased harassment and targeting. There have been reports of heightened surveillance, arbitrary detentions, and biased policing, leaving many feeling vulnerable and marginalised.
In the case of Maharashtra, public notices in the villages state that the decision to bar non-local Muslims from praying in village mosques was taken due to “law and order concerns.” A police official from Piranhut confirmed this, stating, “Outsiders increase in numbers on Fridays and this can pose a threat to law and order. Hence, only locals are allowed to pray at mosques.” Media reports on Thursday quoted him as saying.
However, members of the Muslim community say the resolutions were passed without their consultation and that such moves hurt religious freedom and social harmony.
“This is deeply distressing,” said Mohammad Arif, a businessman who travels frequently to Pune. “We often stop to pray during travel. Are we now to be treated like threats?”
Community leaders warn that this decision will disrupt religious life, particularly for traveling Muslims and traders who depend on mosque access.
Fayaz Sheikh, Pune district president of AIMIM, strongly criticised the resolutions, reports said.
“These resolutions are unconstitutional and are an attempt to alienate and provoke Muslims,” he told Maktoob.
Many netizens have expressed outrage, pointing out that such actions only add to the discrimination faced by Muslims.
No formal complaints have been lodged yet, but civil rights groups are considering legal action.
The specific targeting has affected Muslim business owners, students, and professionals, with some facing unwarranted scrutiny and accusations. Many are being forced to prove their loyalty and innocence without cause, leading to a sense of alienation.
Civil society groups have expressed concern over these developments, warning that such actions could further polarise communities and undermine social cohesion.
The situation calls for urgent attention to ensure that the rights of all citizens are protected and that the response to terrorism does not unfairly target any particular group. Authorities must maintain a balanced approach, focusing on addressing the root causes of violence while safeguarding the dignity and rights of every individual.
