Dehradun: The sealing of a mosque in Dehradun’s Thano village has triggered protests from Muslim organisations and renewed concerns over the treatment of religious institutions in Uttarakhand.
Authorities from the Mussoorie Dehradun Development Authority sealed the mosque on June 2, citing the absence of approved construction plans. Local Muslim residents disputed the action, stating that the mosque has existed since 1978 and has served the community for decades. They argued that many structures in the area lack sanctioned maps and questioned why the mosque was singled out.
The action followed sustained objections from Hindutva groups, including Bajrang Dal members, who had campaigned against the mosque. A day after the sealing, members of Kali Sena gathered outside the premises and held a “Swaha Havan” to celebrate the closure.
Muslim organisations responded with demonstrations. Members of Muslim Sewa Sangathan staged a protest outside the development authority’s office and accused officials of discrimination. Community representatives said they plan to approach the High Court as well as human rights and minority rights bodies over the issue.
According to community leaders, this is the fifth mosque in and around Dehradun to face closure over alleged permission-related issues. They contend that obtaining approval for new mosques or even repairs to existing ones has become increasingly difficult due to opposition from Hindutva groups.
The controversy has unfolded against a backdrop of wider complaints from Muslim groups regarding discrimination, restrictions on religious practices, and the activities of vigilante organisations in different parts of the state.
Critics argue that selective action against Muslim institutions and public celebrations following such closures deepen social divisions. Muslim organisations have called for equal application of the law and protection of constitutional guarantees of religious freedom.
Story by S.M.A.Kazmi for India Tomorrow
