The Conflict Between Badaun Jama Masjid and Neel Kanth Mahadev Temple
There have been frequent incidents of disputes between mosques and temples across India, with efforts being made to demolish and destroy both. Just when the pain of Muslims was not yet healed, Hindu extremist elements attacked the centuries-old Jama Masjid in Badaun. While we were grieving for the martyrs of Sambhal, the poor of Ajmer Sharif, and the oppressed of Bahraich, the Hindu Mahasabha filed a claim in court stating that the historic mosque in Badaun was originally the Neel Kanth Mahadev Temple, which was destroyed by Muslim rulers and converted into a mosque. They claim that the columns, markings of idols, and an underground tunnel are evidence that this place was once used for Hindu worship. Additionally, the Hindu Mahasabha has argued that the temple was demolished during the reign of Qutub-ud-Din Aibak. According to them, old records in the gazette and other historical references confirm their claim. In court, they have requested permission to worship at this site again, presenting it as a matter of religious freedom.
I do not understand why these extremist Hindu elements do not realize that our country is a democratic and secular nation, where everyone has the full right to live according to their religion. If a third party interferes, they deserve punishment. Also, followers of all religions have the right to protect their places of worship, and according to the 1991 Places of Worship Act, no mosque or temple has the right to be demolished. Section 52 clearly states that each religion is distinct, and its followers have the full right to practice their faith according to its principles. So why is there one-sided legislation? Why are only the mosques and shrines built by Muslims being targeted?
The administration of the Badaun Jama Masjid has completely rejected the Hindu side's claim, calling it baseless and unsubstantiated. Their lawyers presented historical documents and evidence showing that the Jama Masjid was built by Sultan Shams-ud-Din Iltutmish and has been a place of worship for Muslims for centuries. The mosque administration emphasized that the Jama Masjid is registered as a national heritage site with the Department of Archaeology, and there is no dispute over its ownership. They also stated that this mosque has been in continuous use by Muslims for hundreds of years, and the Hindu side's claim contradicts historical facts. In court, the lawyers representing the Muslim community described this claim as an attempt to create a political and religious disturbance.
The case is still pending in court, and after hearing the arguments from both sides, the court has scheduled further hearings. During this time, more evidence regarding the legal and religious aspects of the Jama Masjid will be examined. This dispute has highlighted issues of religious harmony in Badaun and could become an important example in Indian courts, like other similar cases. This issue is part of ongoing disputes over historical buildings in India, where questions are being raised about the ownership and status of such buildings based on religious grounds. This dispute has caused concern among the people of Badaun and increased social tension.
The historic Jama Masjid of Badaun, which has been a place of worship for Muslims for seven centuries, is now the target of a claim by the Hindu Mahasabha. According to them, the mosque was originally the Nilkanth Mahadev Temple, which they allege was destroyed during the reign of Qutb-ud-Din Aibak and turned into a mosque. This claim is not limited to Badaun alone, as similar allegations have been made by Hindu extremist organizations in other cities such as Ajmer, Sambhal, and Delhi (Jama Masjid).
These allegations seem to be a deliberate conspiracy to disrupt religious harmony and incite riots against Muslims. The disturbing part is that the leadership of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which holds political power in the country, remains silent on this issue. Their silence suggests that they either agree with these claims or are deliberately not taking action to stop them. As hatred spreads across the country, they fail to uphold the dignity of Babasaheb Ambedkar and violate the very laws he created. The agenda of Hindutva organizations is not limited to capturing Muslim places of worship; it is also part of a broader conspiracy to weaken Muslims socially and politically. Incidents like those in Badaun, Ajmer, and Sambhal are clear warning signs for Muslims, indicating attempts to strip them of their religious identity.It is essential for Muslims to confront this threat with unity and organization. They have strong evidence in court that refutes these claims, but they must also strengthen their social and political power. To effectively raise a voice against these issues, intellectual discussions, legal action, and promoting social harmony are extremely important. It is crucial to remember that this issue is not only harmful to Muslims but to the entire country of India. The fire of Islamophobia can destroy the overall harmony of the nation, which will affect every citizen. Therefore, the solution to this problem must be based on unity, awareness, and a strong foundation of justice so that our country can remain safe from all divisions, and every Indian feels free.
In conclusion, I would say that to counter the growing Hindutva claims against the Badaun Jama Masjid and other historical places of worship, Indian Muslims need to take organized and united action. First, Muslims must raise awareness within their community. Create awareness that such disputes are being created to harm religious harmony. Openly discuss these topics in educational institutions, mosques, and social platforms to strengthen public opinion. The second solution is to stand firmly in legal matters. Form a team of competent lawyers to protect historical sites like the Jama Masjid, who can present these claims with sound and historical evidence in court. It is important to fight the legal battle with perseverance and patience. Third, establish connections with leaders and organizations of other religions who support religious harmony. Create a common platform with Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and other communities to eradicate communal conflicts at the root. This struggle is not just for one community but for all peace-loving citizens of India. Remember, the strongest solution to these issues is community unity, educational awareness, and legal action. These steps can not only help Muslims overcome this conflict but also protect them from similar issues in the future.
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