Mumbai, July 17: Maulana Ilyas Khan Falahi, Ameer Jamaat-e-Islami Hind Maharashtra, has expressed deep concern over the recent acts of vandalism and violence targeting the Vishalgad Dargah complex, mosque and Muslim communities in Kolhapur. In a statement to the media, he criticized the government for its lack of seriousness in addressing communal hatred despite repeated warnings from justice-seeking citizens.
“The indifference of the government is evident from the impunity granted to those inciting communal violence and hatred,” Maulana Falahi stated.
“The stone-pelting at Vishalgad Dargah, vandalism of the mosque, and violence in Muslim neighborhoods are alarming. The actions of these miscreants threaten the harmony of Maharashtra.”
Maulana Falahi urged the Muslim community to raise their voices against these injustices while maintaining patience. He cautioned that communal and extremist elements are attempting to provoke the community to advance their agenda.
Reflecting on the recent incidents, Maulana Falahi remarked, “The violence and deteriorating law and order situation will hinder the state’s progress.”
He questioned the government and administration, asking on whose instigation the extremists attempted to incite violence in the dargah and mosque premises, especially when the issue of illegal encroachments is still under consideration by the High Court.
Additionally, Maulana Falahi highlighted the recent attacks on religious figures in Nandurbar, including the assault on a scholar and, the very next day, the beating of a mosque imam. He noted that these incidents are not isolated but part of a worrying trend.
Maulana Falahi called for immediate and decisive action from the government and police administration to curb the activities of communal and extremist elements. He warned that failure to address this issue promptly could lead to a significant crisis in law and order in the state.