People’s Union For Civil Liberties Condemns Baseless Claims Against Ajmer Dargah, Calls For Upholding Communal Harmony

By Muslim Mirror Desk

November 29, 2024

The People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) has strongly condemned the recent propaganda and misleading claims against the Ajmer Dargah, calling them an attempt to disturb the communal harmony of the historic city. In a press statement, PUCL emphasized the importance of respecting the law and preserving the secular fabric of the nation.

The organization highlighted that Ajmer is a symbol of communal harmony, hosting significant religious landmarks including the Ajmer Dargah, the Brahma Temple, Jain pilgrim centres, churches, and Parsi temples. The Dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, with its 800-year history, has been a beacon of interfaith devotion, attracting millions of devotees across religions. PUCL noted that both Muslim rulers and Hindu kings have contributed to its development, underscoring its inclusive legacy.

PUCL criticized recent claims alleging the existence of a temple beneath the Dargah as baseless and uninformed. It expressed disappointment over such assertions being entertained by the judiciary, pointing out that Ajmer has never witnessed such disputes. The organization highlighted the Dargah’s role in fostering unity, with traditions like Jain and Jhulelal processions and even RSS marches receiving respect and hospitality as they pass by the shrine.

Citing the Places of Worship Act, 1991, PUCL reiterated that the religious character of any site as it existed on August 15, 1947, must remain unchanged. The Supreme Court has upheld this Act, emphasizing its role in protecting India’s pluralistic heritage and preventing misuse of historical claims for political or religious gain. PUCL reminded that the Dargah Khwaja Saheb Act, 1955, designates the site explicitly as a Muslim religious shrine.

PUCL urged the government to take immediate action to counter such divisive narratives and protect minority communities. It called on the Supreme Court to direct lower courts to reject claims that violate the Places of Worship Act. The organization also appealed to the public to resist attempts to disturb communal harmony for cheap popularity.

“Ajmer’s legacy of coexistence must be preserved, and the rule of law must prevail,” PUCL leaders stated in their appeal.

Signed by:

Kavita Srivastava (National President)

Bhanwar Meghwanshi (President, PUCL Rajasthan)

Anant Bhatnagar (General Secretary, PUCL Rajasthan)

URL:    https://www.newageislam.com/interfaith-dialogue/pucl-ajmer-dargah-communal-harmony/d/133871

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