BJP, VHP target madrassa in Rajasthan’s Alwar, Panchayat sees political conspiracy
New Delhi: Peace and tranquility in the NEB neighbourhood of Alwar city in Rajasthan have been disrupted as political and religious tensions rise over the targeting of a madrassa by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP).
According to Kashmir Media Service, the controversy began when former BJP MLA Banwarilal Singhal, along with members of the VHP and Bajrang Dal, submitted a memorandum to the District Collector accusing the madrassa management of ‘encroaching’ land under a stay order by the Urban Improvement Trust (UIT).
Singhal said ‘Illegal’ construction is being done in violation of the law, which shows the administration’s inaction. He called upon the authorities to take strict measures against the madrassa management for allegedly disregarding the stay order.
However, this move has raised questions among local communities and political observers, especially given the wider context of similar exercises across BJP-ruled states such as Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Assam, and Madhya Pradesh. In many of these states, Hindu organisations like the VHP and Bajrang Dal have protested against Muslim religious sites, often with strong political backing.
Sher Mohammad, patron of the Meo Panchayat Board and Sadar of District Meo Panchayat, spoke to reporters and firmly denied the allegations. “This is a politically motivated attempt to spread religious tension in society,” he said. “The land of the madrasa was allotted through proper procedures by the Urban Improvement Trust (UIT), and taxes are paid regularly.”
According to Sher Mohammad, the construction work cited in the memorandum was merely the repair of some domes that had become dilapidated, and this work had been underway for three months before being halted by police orders. He questioned why the issue was raised only now. “Bringing up this matter after three months is clearly a conspiracy to disturb peace,” he added.
Sher Mohammad appealed to the administration, saying, “If there is any illegal construction anywhere, we are ready to cooperate fully with the authorities to resolve the matter.”
He also highlighted the peaceful nature of the Muslim community, saying, “We believe in peace and brotherhood. The administration should take strict action against those who try to mislead society on religious grounds so that communal harmony is not harmed.”
Residents in the NEB area expressed concern over the protests escalating tensions. One resident, Mohammad Yusuf, said, “We have lived peacefully for years. This sudden accusation feels like an attempt to create unrest where there was none.”
This incident comes at a time when communal harmony in various parts of the country is under strain. Experts warn that political and religious groups must exercise caution and avoid actions that could incite unrest.
Human rights activist Farah Khan commented, “Communal harmony is delicate and should not be compromised for political gains. Allegations must be backed by clear evidence, and authorities should act impartially.”
