Rising Communal Tensions In Uttarakhand: Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind Chief Urges Amit Shah, CM Dhami To Intervene

Maulana Mahmood Asad Madani, the chief of Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, wrote to Home Minister Amit Shah and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami expressing concerns about the rising communal tensions in Uttarkashi district.

Madani's letter also highlighted what he believed was the "open threat of expulsion of the Muslim community in Uttarkashi Uttarakhand."

In his letter, Madani requested to halt the upcoming mahapanchayat on 15 June, called by right-wing organisations.

He argued that such an event has the potential to flare up more communal violence in the state, which can result in dire consequences.

The Uttarkashi district administration has already denied the Hindu organisations permission to host the 15 June mahapanchayat.

There is ongoing unrest in Uttarkashi since 26 May when two men attempted to abduct a girl. This incident led right-wing groups to label it as a 'love jihad' conspiracy, leading to further tension and unrest in the district.

Madani urged the authorities in Uttarkashi to take strict action against groups or individuals spreading division. He reminded them of their duty to protect the lives and properties of citizens in India, "irrespective of their religion and ethnic background."

Moreover, Madani highlighted that Uttarakhand state has exemplary law and order conditions, and communal harmony. Thus, he pointed out that what's happening in Uttarkashi is not consistent with the nature of the state.

In an incident that occurred on 26 May, two men identified as Ubed Khan (24) and Jitender Saini (23) allegedly attempted to abduct a 14-year-old girl. The following day, they were taken into custody.

The incident was claimed by some to be a 'love jihad' conspiracy.

A protest march in Purola on 29 May incited violence when some of the protesters attacked shops belonging to Muslims. On 3 June, another similar protest occurred.

In Dehradun, Muslim religious leaders have also called for a mahapanchayat on 18 June to protest what they believed was increasing discrimination directed at their community.

The Uttarakhand Waqf Board and Haj Committee representatives met with CM Dhami on Tuesday (13 June) to discuss action against those who 'harassed' Muslim residents in Purola town. They demanded strict measures to be imposed and justice for those affected.