In an open letter to the Prime Minister, concerned citizens have called for the protection and strict enforcement of Places of Worship Act, 1991. This legislation, passed by Parliament, seeks to preserve the religious character of places of worship as they were on August 15, 1947.
The letter highlights growing concerns over demands from fringe groups to conduct surveys of mosques and dargahs, including prominent sites such as Ajmer Dargah. These groups claim that such sites were formerly temples. Similar surveys have already been initiated at Gyanvapi Masjid Varanasi, Shahi Jama Masjid Sambhal, and Shahi Eidgah Masjid Mathura, spurring similar demands across the country.
“Such actions appear to be part of a broader effort to target the Muslim community. This is occurring alongside other troubling trends, including mob lynchings, property demolitions, unchecked hate speeches, and calls for economic boycotts of Muslims,” the letter stated.
The citizens emphasised the constitutional guarantee of equality before the law, noting that targeting any single community undermines India’s rich cultural and religious diversity.
The letter warned that the current wave of demands could deepen societal divisions and lead to communal unrest.
“Your unequivocal condemnation and swift measures are essential to restore citizens’ confidence in the rule of law and ensure the security of all communities,” the letter concluded.
