Members of Hindu organisations clash with administration officials alleging illegal land use
Team Clarion
NEW DELHI – The ongoing tensions in Uttar Pradesh have seen a new flashpoint in Fatehpur district, where a dispute over mosque construction has ignited clashes between Hindu organisations and local authorities. The controversy is being exacerbated by broader concerns about Islamophobia in the region.
The conflict centres on allegations that the mosque under construction in Malwan town is being built on government land intended for a pond. Hindu organisations claim that this construction is illegal and violates land-use regulations. The district administration has promised a thorough investigation into these claims but has yet to take definitive action.
The controversy intensified when Hindu organisations convened a Mahapanchayat, during which they strongly protested the mosque’s construction. The gathering saw a scuffle between the protesters and the administration officials. Activists attempted to access the construction site but were prevented by authorities.
Minister Raju Porwal, who was the chief guest at the Mahapanchayat, voiced his opposition to the construction. “We strongly oppose this illegal construction and demand that the administration halt the work immediately,” Porwal said. “The district administration has assured us that concrete action will be taken within a month.” The Mahapanchayat concluded with the administration’s commitment to address the issue.
In response to the escalating situation, the district administration has deployed additional police forces to Malwan town to manage the unrest and maintain order. Efforts are underway to ensure peace in the area while investigations continue.
Despite these measures, the atmosphere remains tense. The Muslim community has not yet publicly addressed the allegations, contributing to the ongoing uncertainty in the region.
Local Muslims have dismissed the allegations as baseless. Muhammad Rafiq, a local resident, stated, “It is not permissible to build a mosque on illegal land in Islam. This land was purchased long ago and the work is being done according to proper procedures. These accusations are an attempt to defame Muslims and sow discord.”
On the other hand, Hindu resident Jai Narayan commented, “For years, Muslims and Hindus have lived harmoniously in this area. The local people have no objection to the mosque. However, some individuals are trying to create enmity and divide our communities.”
Many locals emphasise that the area has historically been an example of Hindu-Muslim brotherhood. However, the current dispute highlights the challenges posed by individuals seeking to exploit such issues to drive a wedge between communities.