Hindu Raksha Dal Protests Against Azan in Dehradun

In Dehradun, members of the Hindu Raksha Dal held a provocative rally against the Azan, the Islamic call to prayer, from the local Jama Masjid, Clarion reported. The protesters shouted controversial slogans, including “Ayodhya was just a glimpse, Kashi and Mathura are next,” and demanded the recitation of the “Hanuman Chalisa” at the mosque. Despite their intentions, police prevented them from entering the mosque area.

A Hindutva leader warned that if loudspeakers were not silenced, they would take further action. In response, a mosque leader praised the police for maintaining order, emphasizing the need to prevent communal riots. He offered to lower the volume of the Azan to address concerns.

This incident reflects ongoing tensions in Uttarakhand, where Hindutva groups have previously targeted mosques. Last October, violence erupted when police intervened to protect a mosque threatened by protesters claiming it was illegally built, resulting in injuries and property damage.