Muslim community condemns ban on prayers on rooftops of mosques, demands fair treatment
Team Clarion
SAMBHAL – Senior police officer Anuj Chaudhary, who recently faced backlash for suggesting Muslims should stay indoors on Friday which coincided with the Hindu festival of Holi, is now under renewed criticism for prohibiting Eid prayers on mosque rooftops. The Muslim community here has strongly opposed this directive, calling it discriminatory and an infringement on religious freedom.
The controversy stems from Chaudhary’s recent statement defending his previous remarks regarding Holi and Friday prayers. “If anyone had a problem with my statement, they should have gone to court,” he said during a public meeting. His earlier comments, suggesting that Muslims should stay indoors if they were uncomfortable with Holi celebrations, had drawn outrage from community leaders and opposition parties alike.
With the holy month of Ramadan nearing its end, the Muslim community here sought permission to offer Alvida Juma (the last Friday prayer of Ramadan) on mosque rooftops due to the large turnout expected on March 28. However, the administration, led by SDM Vandana Mishra, has stated that an inspection will be conducted before making a final decision. Many community members view this as an unnecessary hurdle aimed at restricting their religious rights.
“This is outright discrimination,” said Mohammad Saeed, a local religious leader. “Muslims are being repeatedly targeted and restricted in their religious practices. First, we were told not to come out on Holi, and now we are not even allowed to pray on mosque rooftops?”
Another resident, Farhan Qureshi, echoed similar sentiments. “The administration claims to be impartial, but their actions suggest otherwise. Why are such restrictions only imposed on Muslims?” he questioned.
Tensions in Sambhal have been high following clashes last November during a survey at the Shahi Jama Masjid, which resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries. Many fear that the latest directive could further inflame sentiments in the already sensitive region.
“This is not about politics. I am an administrative officer, and I follow the rules,” Chaudhary stated in his defence. However, his critics argue that his actions and statements reflect a clear bias against the Muslim community. Local activists and political leaders have demanded his removal, citing concerns over his handling of communal issues.
As the administration deliberates on the prayer request, the Muslim community continues to press for its rights. “We are not asking for anything unlawful. We only want a peaceful space to pray,” said Abdul Rahman, a local businessman. “The government must ensure that Muslims are treated with the same respect and freedom as any other community.”
