The dispute draws political attention, with a Hindu leader now supporting him against what he calls biased treatment
AJMER – A dispute over a simple egg cart has sparked controversy in this historic Rajasthan city, raising questions of fairness and alleged discrimination against a Muslim vendor.
Arif Mohammad, a young man who has been selling eggs at his cart in Gyan Vihar Colony for nearly a year and a half, says he is being repeatedly harassed by local councillor Pratibha Parashar’s husband, Arvind Parashar.
According to Arif, his livelihood is being targeted under the pretext that the location is a “non-vending zone,” while other stalls in the same area continue without interference.
“This cart is the only source of income for my family. I have been selling eggs here for more than a year. Many others also put up stalls here, but only I am being told to leave. This is discrimination,” said Arif, speaking to local reporters.
The matter escalated when local political figures intervened. Ashish Soni, district convener of the Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP), extended his support to Arif, criticising the repeated actions against him.
Soni submitted a written complaint to the District Collector, Lokbandhu, demanding action against Arvind Parashar.
“No hardworking man should be harassed just because of where he sets up his cart. This is completely unjust. Targeting a single vendor while others are left untouched is not acceptable,” said Soni.
He also added that the matter reflects “biased treatment that must not be ignored,” urging authorities to treat all vendors equally.
In response to the allegations, councillor Pratibha Parashar defended her position, insisting that the issue is not religious bias but a matter of safety and public order.
She explained that the spot behind Arif’s cart is next to an empty plot where, according to her, people often drink alcohol and cause trouble.
“It is not safe to set up a cart at such a place. It also affects the image of the colony. We advised him to move to another place, but some people are unnecessarily trying to make it a big issue,” said Parashar.
The incident has triggered debate among residents and observers. While some see the dispute as a simple civic issue, others believe it exposes a deeper problem of selective action against minorities.
Local citizens expressed concern that targeting one vendor while leaving others untouched creates resentment and divides the community.
“Street vendors work hard to earn their bread. If rules are to be applied, they must be applied to everyone equally, not just one man,” said a resident of Gyan Vihar Colony, who requested anonymity.
The District Collector’s office has acknowledged receiving the complaint. Sources suggest that a review will be carried out to determine whether the actions against Arif were lawful and consistent.
For Arif, the fight is not just about his egg cart but about dignity and equal treatment.
“I only want to work honestly and feed my family. Why am I the only one being stopped? I just want justice,” Arif said, his voice heavy with frustration.
