Heartfelt Victory: Controversial Cloth Sheets Removed from Haridwar Mosques and Mazar on Kanwar Yatra Route | Latest News India
Haridwar Mosques, Mazar Covered, Sheets Removed After Objections
On Friday, facades of two mosques and a mazar along the Kanwar Yatra route in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, were draped in large white sheets to "prevent trouble." These coverings were removed by evening after objections arose from various quarters.
During the annual Kanwar Yatra, Lord Shiva devotees, known as Kanwariyas, collect Ganga water from Sultanganj. The sheets were installed on bamboo scaffolds in the Jwalapur area. Local mosque leaders and mazar caretakers stated they were unaware of any administrative orders for this action, marking the first instance of such measures during the yatra.
Cabinet minister Satpal Maharaj mentioned the action aimed to maintain peace, comparing it to covering buildings under construction. However, local objections, including those from politicians, led to the removal of the sheets. Special Police Officer Danish Ali noted that the railway police’s orders prompted them to take down the coverings.
Former minister Naeem Qureshi and other leaders highlighted that Muslims in Haridwar traditionally welcome and provide refreshments for Shiv bhakts, emphasizing this act disrupted an example of communal harmony. Qureshi recalled a pre-mela meeting where both Hindu and Muslim community members were appointed as SPOs.
Shakeel Ahmad, a mazar caretaker, remarked that Kanwariyas often rest under the shade of trees near mosques and mazars, making the covering unprecedented. Congress leader Rao Afaque Ali expressed surprise at the decision, questioning its implications for future communal activities.
Uttarakhand Congress vice president Suryakant Dhasmana claimed this action violated a Supreme Court stay preventing hotel and vendor identity displays along the route. He criticized the ruling BJP for divisive practices, arguing that such actions go against the unity of the country.
This incident underscores ongoing tensions and the consideration of communal harmony in religious and public events.
Original Story https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/haridwar-mosques-mazar-on-kanwar-yatra-route-covered-with-cloth-sheets-removed-after-objections-101722052265646-amp.html
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