Indore: Widespread protests broke out in Indore after Eklavya Singh Gaur, son of BJP MLA Malini Gaur, allegedly urged local shopkeepers to remove Muslim employees from their businesses. The statement triggered public outrage and prompted demonstrations by both Muslim shopkeepers and Hindu allies.
Protesters marched from Bajaj Khana Chowk to Rajbada, holding placards and chanting slogans such as “Is being a Muslim our fault?” and “What will you gain by disrupting Hindu-Muslim unity?” The demonstrators emphasized the importance of constitutional rights, equal opportunity, and communal harmony.
The protests highlighted Hindu-Muslim solidarity in the city. Hindu trader Balwant Singh Rathore joined the march with his Muslim business partner, Mohd Haroon, stressing that both communities have historically lived, traded, and prospered together. They called for fair treatment of all employees and condemned discriminatory practices.
The impact on the local market was immediate. Seetlamata Market, usually bustling, appeared deserted on September 25, as many Muslim vendors and workers reportedly stayed away or were removed. This disruption led to a noticeable drop in customer turnout, affecting businesses across the area.
Civil rights organizations raised concerns about police summoning Muslim traders who joined the peaceful protest. Advocate Zaid Pathan, President of the Association of the Muslim Community, alleged that police actions were influenced by political pressure. The Congress Party also condemned the remarks, with City Congress President Chintu Chouksey demanding legal action and an FIR, describing the incident as a deliberate attempt to disturb communal harmony.
The episode underscores the challenges posed by communal employment discrimination and the influence of political statements on public sentiment.
