Tensions Rise in UP’s Pilibhit as Hindu Groups Object to Mosque Activities

Tensions Rise in UP’s Pilibhit as Hindu Groups Object to Mosque Activities
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Tensions have escalated in the Ghazipur Mughal village of Pilibhit district, Uttar Pradesh, where local Hindu groups and right-wing organizations have raised objections to long-standing Muslim prayers and the construction of a mosque minaret, Clarion India reported. In response, Muslim families in the area are defending their religious freedom, stating that the mosque has been a place of worship for over 17 years.

The controversy began when some local Hindus claimed that the mosque’s minaret construction and its prayers were illegal. Ramesh Verma, a member of a local Hindu group, alleged that a small imambara was illegally converted into a mosque and that the new minaret construction is “unlawful.” He stated that the group has approached authorities to stop the construction.

Local Muslim residents have strongly refuted these claims. According to Mohammad Aslam, the community has been praying peacefully at the site for many years and has had permission for loudspeakers since 2018. Ayesha Khan, another resident, called the objections “unfair” and stressed the community’s long-standing adherence to both the law and their religious practices. Imam Shafiq, who leads prayers at the mosque, called for dialogue and said that “religious practices should not be politicized.”

In response to the escalating situation, SDM Shraddha Singh visited the site and ordered a halt to the minaret construction, citing a lack of official permission for the new construction and prayers beyond what is already permitted. Authorities have since deployed a police presence in the village to prevent further escalation. The incident highlights ongoing communal tensions in several areas of Uttar Pradesh where minority religious practices have been contested by local groups.