Tensions are escalating in Fatehpur, Uttar Pradesh, over whether Nawab Abdul Samad’s tomb is, in fact, a historical Shiva temple. A day before, Hindu organizations requested permission from the DM to perform rituals at the tomb, which, though denied, led to barricades being installed and heavy police presence. On Monday, many Hindu activists arrived, allegedly trying to damage the tomb, but were stopped by the police. Meanwhile, members of the Muslim community also moved towards the site, heightening the tension.
Let's delve into the claims of both sides and the current situation...
The BJP district president claims the Nawab Abdul Samad tomb in Fatehpur's Sadar Tehsil is a temple, dating back a thousand years. Many Hindu organizations, including the Thakur Ji/Shiva Temple Protection Struggle Committee and BJP, announced plans for rituals on August 11. They accuse the transformation of the temple into a tomb, evidenced by lotus motifs and tridents, affirming its ancient status before becoming a tomb.
BJP District President Mukhlal Pal stated that the administration is aware of the issue. Another community is accused of altering the temple into a mosque structure. This is a spiritual hub we must preserve and perform rituals at any cost. Sanatanis will not tolerate illegal occupations, and the administration bears responsibility for any outcomes.
The Ulema Council Speaks
Mohammad Naseem of the National Ulema Council condemned the incident in Fatehpur, emphasizing the tomb’s centuries-old significance and its documented presence in official records. The Thakur Ji temple claim is deemed a spectacle, disturbing the district's tranquility. He urges the administration and government to ensure no temple is sought beneath every mosque and tomb—this is not democracy but autocracy. An agitation will ensue.
Avinash Pandey from the Municipality Council mentioned following district officer orders to erect barricades, preventing crowd trespass. Robust police arrangements exist to safeguard the premises. Hindu organizations announced rituals at the tomb, yet without permission. Today, despite administrative efforts, numerous Hindu activists arrived, resulting in vandalism.
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VHP's Statement
VHP State Vice President Virendra Pandey said an ancient temple of Lord Bholenath existed in Abu Nagar Rediya, under the jurisdiction of Sadar Kotwali, Fatehpur district. It has been tampered with by miscreants. Preparations for Janmashtami involve gathering many Hindu followers at Dak Bungalow on August 11 to commence rituals within the alleged tomb. Cleaning and reclaiming from encroachment are prioritized. Miscreants altering the temple’s character must be punished, and the site returned to Hindus. We are prepared to go to any length to uphold our religious rights and protect our sacred places.
Talks are ongoing with district administration, consistently communicating our stance. Ten days ago, we urged them to have the revenue department survey the site, but there has been little concern or action. If anyone claims it’s not a temple, let them present authentic evidence. The administration should mediate. We possess substantial evidence showing a perimeter walkway, religious well, lotus-trident symbols, and remaining chain canopy, unheard of in a mosque or tomb.
Current Status in Fatehpur
DM Ravindra Singh asserted normal law and order, with people returning home. Our aim is to restore public confidence. SP Anoop Kumar Singh also noted normalcy and control, with both parties sent back after discussions.
A riot control scheme has been implemented due to the situation. The DGP headquarters monitors proceedings closely. Additional reinforcement, including one ASP, one DSP, six inspectors, and forces from five stations, is en route to Fatehpur from Banda. Various police stations have occupied the site beforehand.
