– Raheem Khan
Ajmer: A delegation of Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) held a press conference at Anjuman Committee office here Wednesday, discussing the recent survey petition filed against Ajmer Dargah.
The press conference featured prominent speakers, including SDPI Vice-President Mohammad Shafi, General Secretary Yasmeen Farooqi, Rajasthan State President Ashfaq Hussain, Indian Buddhist Society President Professor Rajratan Ambedkar, and Anjuman Committee Secretary Dr. Sarwar Chishti. The leaders strongly criticised the petitioner’s actions and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene, condemning any move that fosters communal discord.
Addressing the gathering, Mohammad Shafi emphasised the historical and cultural significance of the 800-year-old Ajmer Dargah, describing it as a symbol of religious harmony. He noted that the Dargah, established during the Mughal era, received consistent support from non-Muslim rulers like the Marathas, Rajputs, and Sindhias, and even the British colonial authorities respected its sanctity.
Shafi criticised the current government for permitting actions that question the Dargah’s sanctity, a move he deemed unprecedented and divisive. He stated, “During Prime Minister Modi’s tenure, attempts to delegitimise this symbol of unity have emerged, threatening the country’s secular fabric.”
Shafi urged the Supreme Court to reverse lower court decisions allowing petitions challenging the status of religious sites. He also expressed concern over controversial remarks made by Allahabad High Court Judge Shekhar Yadav, which he said have eroded trust in judicial impartiality.
He also appealed to citizens to resist politicisation of religious sites and defend the country’s unity and cultural heritage.
Professor Rajratan Ambedkar highlighted the relevance of the Places of Worship Act, 1991, which mandates maintaining the status of religious places as it stood in 1947. He criticised attempts to investigate religious sites, stating that such actions violate constitutional provisions and threaten India’s secular fabric.
“If the Ajmer Dargah is targeted, we will demand investigations into Buddhist Viharas occupied by other religious structures,” Ambedkar said.
Yasmeen Farooqi described the petition against the Ajmer Dargah as a challenge to India’s secular Constitution. She called on PM Modi to uphold justice and inclusivity, urging him to condemn divisive elements and reassure the Muslim community.
“The whole country is watching,” Farooqi said. “The government’s response will reflect its stance on secularism and inclusivity.”
Ashfaq Hussain concluded the press conference, thanking the journalists and media for their support in bringing attention to the issue.
