New Delhi:After fueling communal tensions in Nagpur over Aurangzeb, Hindu right-wing organizations have now set their sights on another target. The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) has launched a campaign against the revered Sufi saint Syed Salar Masood Ghazi, seeking a ban on public fairs associated with his legacy. In Uttar Pradesh, events that have long symbolized Hindu-Muslim unity are now being painted with a communal brush.
The administration in Sambhal has already imposed a ban on the Neza Mela, a fair historically celebrated as a symbol of communal harmony. Following this, the VHP has now demanded the prohibition of the Jeth Mela in Bahraich, another significant event linked to Salar Masood Ghazi.
VHP has alleged that the shrine of Syed Salar Masood Ghazi was built by demolishing a Surya Mandir (Sun Temple), claiming that it was constructed 200 years after his time during the reign of Feroz Tughlaq. The right-wing group submitted a memorandum to the District Magistrate of Bahraich, warning of legal action if their demand to ban the fair is not met.
Notably, the Jeth Mela, held annually on May 15, sees participation from both Hindus and Muslims, with Hindus often forming the majority of attendees. Locals in Sambhal, after the ban on Neza Mela, have now requested permission for a “Sadbhavana Mela” (Harmony Fair), which the administration has yet to approve.
Communal tensions in both Sambhal and Bahraich have escalated following the administration’s ban on Neza Mela. Hindutva activists have been spreading hate against Syed Salar Masood Ghazi, falsely labeling him as a “foreign invader,” with derogatory remarks circulating on social media.
The police administration in Sambhal has taken a hardline stance, echoing the language of right-wing groups. The Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) even declared that no fair would be allowed in the name of “looters,” referencing Salar Masood Ghazi, the nephew of Mahmud of Ghazni.
Traditionally, Sambhal hosts two editions of the Neza Mela—one in the Sadar Kotwali area and another in Shahbazpur village. Following the ban, local leaders including village head Zeeshan and committee members Zia Ahmad approached SDM Vandana Mishra, requesting approval for a Sadbhavana Mela. The administration has assured that the request is under consideration.
Meanwhile, police in Sambhal remain firm in their stance. Additional SP Suresh Chandra stated that certain groups have objected to events honoring Salar Masood Ghazi, arguing that he harmed the nation. “We cannot allow any fair in his name,” the officer remarked.
With tensions rising, it remains to be seen whether the administration will permit the proposed Sadbhavana Mela as a neutral alternative or continue to cave to the pressure of right-wing groups.
