Haridwar administration covers mosques during Kanwar Yatra, faces backlash

In Haridwar, Uttarakhand, large white cloth sheets were temporarily draped over the facades of two mosques and a mazar along the Kanwar Yatra route on Friday. The move was intended to “prevent trouble” during the religious procession, but the sheets were removed later in the day after widespread objections.

The cloth was hung on bamboo scaffolding in front of the religious structures located in the Jwalapur area. The administration’s action prompted reactions from various quarters, including locals and politicians. The Maulana of one mosque and caretakers of the mazar stated they were unaware of any administrative order mandating this measure, and claimed it was unprecedented for such actions to be taken during the yatra.

Haridwar’s senior superintendent of police and district magistrate were not available for comment. However, Cabinet Minister Satpal Maharaj defended the decision, stating it was a precautionary measure to maintain peace. He likened the coverings to those used on buildings under construction, minimizing its significance.

Danish Ali, a special police officer (SPO) appointed for the yatra’s management, confirmed that the coverings were removed following a directive from the railway police post.

Congress leader and former Minister Naeem Qureshi criticized the move, highlighting the longstanding tradition of harmony between Hindus and Muslims in Haridwar. He emphasized that Muslims have always welcomed Kanwar Yatra participants and provided refreshments during the event. Qureshi expressed surprise at the administration’s decision, noting it was the first time such an action had been taken.

Caretaker Shakeel Ahmad of the mazar expressed that the coverings were not discussed with them beforehand and that this was the first instance of such a step being taken. He pointed out that Kanwariyas often rest under the shade of trees outside mosques and mazars, and this new practice was confusing.

Former district panchayat president Rao Afaque Ali also questioned the decision, suggesting it might set a troubling precedent. He expressed concern that if religious structures are covered in this manner, similar actions might be taken against temples in the future, affecting the country’s tradition of mutual respect among different faiths.

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