Chamoli: Following the repeated incidents of crime against women in Uttarakhand’s hilly regions, the restlessness among the locals has escalated communal rift, resulting in an ultimatum given to Muslim community in Khansar town of Chamoli which demands their oust from the town by 31 December.
This has led to resentment among local Muslims who have been living in the town from generations. They have asked for administration intervention into this matter.
Demanded verification of all “outsiders” in the region
In a recent incident, a traders’ body in Chamoli’s Khansar town passed a resolution ordering 15 Muslim families to vacate the town by December 31. The groups have also demanded verification of all “outsiders” in the region, sparking concerns about communal harmony.
चमोली के व्यापारियों ने प्रस्ताव पारित कर 31 दिसंबर तक कस्बे के 15 मुस्लिम परिवारों को शहर छोड़ने के लिए कहा है,
ऐसा नहीं करने पर कानूनी कार्रवाई और जुर्माना लगाने की बात भी सामने आई है!! pic.twitter.com/8LPo0PJIlw— Mohammad Hussain (@Rwmh0007) October 19, 2024
Banned all vendors from entering village areas in Khansar Valley
Virendra Singh, president of the Maithaan Sewa Samiti, claimed the decision aims to prevent criminal incidents involving Hindu women and members of the minority community. He stated that the proposal was unanimously passed during a traders’ association meeting following a Jagrookta (awareness) rally in the Maithaan market. Singh added that it was decided to ban all vendors from entering village areas in Khansar Valley, with a Rs 10,000 fine and legal action for those caught trading.
Recently, a video of the traders’ rally went viral on social media showing participants in the march. Maithaan, in Khansar town, is a crucial part of Gairsain with a population of around 40,000 people. People associated with the trade association said, “We won’t let the atmosphere in Devbhumi deteriorate under any circumstances, and outsiders with suspicious activities will not be allowed to do business in this region.”
This decision is unacceptable and goes against the principles of equality and justice
Meanwhile, this decision has left Muslim residents, who have been living here for generations, feeling shocked and distraught. “We are deeply disturbed by this sudden decision by the trader’s association. We have lived here for decades, and our families have been an integral part of this community. Why should we be forced to leave?” said a local Muslim resident at Khansar. A local activist, also requesting anonymity, said, “This decision is unacceptable and goes against the principles of equality and justice. We will fight against this proposal and ensure that the rights of all citizens are protected.”
Police investigation is underway
In this matter, Chamoli Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sarvesh Panwar said, “We held talks with trade association members and local representatives on Saturday. We concluded that verification and surveillance of outsiders doing business in the area are crucial. The investigation is currently underway.”
