Gehlot questions border demolitions targeting Muslim sites in Rajasthan
Former Rajasthan Chief Minister and senior Congress leader Ashok Gehlot has raised concerns over the demolition of Muslim religious sites in the state's border areas adjoining Pakistan. In a social media post tagging Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Gehlot alleged that the demolitions appear to be motivated by a desire to create political polarisation and disrupt the social fabric.
The action follows a directive by Amit Shah during his visit to Bikaner in May, where he ordered the removal of all illegal structures within 15 km of the India-Pakistan border. Gehlot claimed that the government has begun identifying and demolishing religious sites belonging to the Muslim community under the pretext of removing encroachments. He alleged that even historical religious sites that are several decades old are being targeted.
Gehlot said the action, being carried out in a peaceful border region while specifically targeting one religion, appears to be solely aimed at creating political polarisation. He claimed the move has generated intense anger among the local population and demanded an immediate stop to the demolitions. He also called on the Ministry of Home Affairs to clarify its position, stating that maintaining peace, harmony, and security in border areas is its constitutional responsibility.
The Congress leader stressed that the border regions, despite their diversity, have historically been free of communal discord. He noted that places of worship are interconnected and enjoy deep reverence among all sections of society. Gehlot pointed out that vocal opposition by local Hindus to the administrative action is itself evidence of the deep communal harmony that exists in the area.
As of now, the government has not yet responded to Gehlot's allegations. The demolition drive continues in the border districts, with authorities citing the Home Minister's directive to clear encroachments for national security reasons.
