‘Naturally scared’: India’s Muslims denied public spaces for Eid prayers
Summary
Muslims in parts of India, especially in Uttar Pradesh, face restrictions on public Eid prayers due to protests and government crackdowns. Authorities and right-wing Hindu groups have blocked or limited Muslim gatherings for prayers in public spaces, leading to fears and tension among Muslim communities.Key Facts
- Muslims in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, are worried about holding Eid al-Adha prayers due to police restrictions and fears of conflict.
- Right-wing Hindu groups and some BJP politicians have protested against Muslims praying in roads, parks, and other open areas.
- The BJP-led government in Uttar Pradesh, led by Yogi Adityanath, has intensified actions against public Muslim prayers since 2017.
- Muslims say many mosques and prayer grounds cannot hold all worshippers during big events, making public prayers necessary.
- In May 1987, a deadly attack on Muslims occurred in Maliyana village, heightening fears among residents.
- Vishwa Hindu Parishad, a far-right group linked to BJP, has called for a nationwide ban on Muslims praying on roads.
- Yogi Adityanath suggested Muslims should pray in shifts, warning of other measures if they do not comply peacefully.
- Nearly 39 million Muslims live in Uttar Pradesh, making it one of the region’s largest Muslim populations.
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