Bhopal: A fair organised to promote local products and self-reliance has sparked allegations of discrimination, as Muslim traders claim they were forcibly evicted from the “Swadeshi Mela” at Tehsil Ground, Damoh, Madhya Pradesh. The traders alleged that the event organisers informed them that “Muslims are not allowed.”
The Swadeshi Mela organised by the Swadeshi Jagran Manch, began on October 14 and is scheduled to continue until November 24. Posters promoting the event emphasised values like equality, harmony, and unity, but the traders’ claims reveal a starkly different reality.
Mohammad Rashid, a businessman from Agra, recounted, “They asked my name and then shut down my shop. We had 10 shops here, but the organisers told us Muslims are not allowed. Our rent and travel expenses are wasted.”
Similar grievances were shared by Shabbir from Lucknow and Vakil Ahmed from Bhadohi, who stated that over 15 Muslim traders were asked to close their stalls and leave.
Damoh District Collector, Sudhir Kochar, has promised an inquiry into the matter but highlighted that the event was privately organised. “This is not a government programme; the Swadeshi Jagran Manch has the right to decide participation. However, we are investigating the allegations and will take necessary action if required,” he said.
The incident has drawn attention to the apparent contradiction between the fair’s stated ideals and its actions. Traders hope for refunds to cover their losses and believe such restitution is crucial to preserving the credibility of events that claim to promote unity and equality.
