United Muslim Forum condemns ‘targeting’ of masjids

Hyderabad

The United Muslim Forum (UMF), a panel of Muslim religious figures, condemned the survey of the Jama Masjid in Sambhal, which led to unrest and death of five persons after police opened fire.

In a statement released to the media on Wednesday, UMF highlighted its concerns over the growing trend of targeting of historic masjids, which it described as communal. It stated that the trend was continuing unabated despite laws protecting religious structures.

The members alleged misuse of legal and administrative mechanisms to fuel communal narratives, and warned of the divisive impact such actions have on the country’s social fabric.

The Forum pointed out that as per Islamic injunctions, a mosque should be built on land free from any disputes. Demolishing a temple to construct a mosque is considered wrong. “But, Hindutva forces, under the patronage of their political leaders, are spreading the false narrative that certain mosques were built by demolishing temples. They have been creating controversies by associating the open water fountains in mosque courtyards with symbols of a particular religion,” the statement read.

The panel appealed to the Chief Justice of India to take note of the issue, and demanded a sitting judge to be appointed to probe into the matter. The family members of those who were killed should be paid an ex gratia and a case be registered against police officers who opened fire.

Published - November 27, 2024 07:12 pm IST