A Muslim couple in northern India faced Islamophobic attacks after purchasing a house in a prestigious neighborhood, leading to their forced exit.
Protests Erupt Against Muslim Family’s Move into Posh Area
The couple, both doctors, were reportedly pushed out of their newly bought house in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, after their Hindu neighbors objected to their move, citing their religion as the issue. The protest began when Hindu residents expressed their disapproval of the couple’s purchase, arguing that the previous owner, a Hindu doctor, had sold the house without consulting them.
Residents Reject Muslim Family, Cite Preservation of Community’s ‘Hindu Identity’
One protester told PTI News that the area, which consists of over 400 Hindu families, was a “Hindu society” and that they did not want members of other communities living there. The protesters carried banners demanding that the previous owner take the house back. They also filed complaints with the district administration and local police, expressing concerns about the potential impact on the neighborhood’s “character.”
Protestors Warn of Potential Cultural Shifts in the Area
“If one house is sold, others might follow, and soon the area could lose its character,” said another protester, according to the Times of India.
Previous Homeowner Expresses Regret Over Controversy
Ashok Bajaj, the previous owner of the house, expressed regret over the situation, telling the BBC that the Muslim couple was uncomfortable moving in due to the protests. “The controversy is changing the fabric of the city,” Dr. Bajaj said. He emphasized that there was no law preventing the sale of the house to the Muslim family.
Local Authorities Seek Amicable Solution Amid Rising Tensions
Hindu residents marched to the district magistrate’s office to file an official objection to the sale. District Magistrate Anuj Kumar Singh stated that efforts were being made to reach a peaceful and unanimous resolution.
Rising Religious Persecution of Minorities in India
Religious minorities, making up about 20% of India’s 1.3 billion people, have faced increasing persecution since the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, came to power in 2014. Human rights organizations have reported rising violence against religious minorities and destruction of their places of worship.
International Concern Over Religious Freedom in India
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom highlighted “severe violations of religious freedom” in its annual report, citing violence and demolitions targeting religious minorities. Despite these concerns, the Indian government has denied such allegations.
Modi’s Islamophobic Remarks Under Scrutiny
Human Rights Watch also condemned remarks made by Prime Minister Modi, claiming he made over 100 Islamophobic comments during his election campaign earlier this year, which contributed to his record third consecutive term in office.
