Jaipur, Aug 11 (IANS) Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) National President and Nagaur MP, Hanuman Beniwal, on Tuesday raised in the Lok Sabha the issue of alleged demolition of religious sites and residential premises in the border areas of Rajasthan, particularly in the Barmer parliamentary constituency.
Raising the matter under Rule 377 and drawing the attention of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Beniwal alleged that several religious sites associated with the Muslim community, along with residential structures, had been demolished in border areas, including Barmer district, without adequate consultation or the consent of those affected.
Beniwal said national security must remain paramount, but stressed that the Constitution also guarantees citizens the right to religion and protects the dignity of religious places.
He argued that any dispute involving religious sites, or any demolition undertaken for administrative or security reasons, should be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law and through a transparent process.
According to him, demolitions carried out without following due legal procedure or engaging with local residents has caused considerable resentment among people in the region.
Citing recent incidents in different parts of Barmer district, Beniwal alleged that mosques and other religious sites had been demolished at several locations. He specifically referred to Jama Masjid Siyai, Jama Masjid Mekan Ka Par, Jama Masjid Kerkori, Jama Masjid Rampura (Daheva), Dargah Sayed Gul Mohammad Shah and Bhalgaon Bakhasar.
He said the incidents had generated anger among sections of the local population and urged the government and administration to address the concerns of affected residents.
Beniwal called for due legal process, transparency and sensitivity in dealing with religious sites in border areas in the future.
He also urged the Centre to send a central team to the locations where the alleged demolitions took place to assess the situation and ensure that the dignity and sanctity of religious places are protected.
Emphasising the need for equal respect for all faiths, Beniwal said he would continue to raise issues of injustice affecting people irrespective of their religion or community.
–IANS
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