Muslims encroach upon land and construct shops in Kheda, Gujarat

Muslim youths stand near the shops and harass Hindu girls

While complaining to the administration, Hindu (on the left) and illegal shops of Muslims (on the right)

Kheda (Gujarat) – Cases of land encroachment and misconduct with Hindu girls have come to light in Chandana village in Kheda, Gujarat. Locals have alleged that Muslims have encroached upon open land situated in the centre of the village and have constructed illegal shops there. Hindus have further alleged that groups of Muslim youths gather at these shops and, upon seeing Hindu women and young girls passing by, make obscene gestures and pass lewd comments. In connection with this matter, a memorandum has been submitted to the District Collector demanding the removal of these encroachments.

1. The area surrounding these shops houses temples and a Chabutara (platform) square, where religious programmes such as Navratri celebrations and Bhajans are regularly held. It is alleged that even during these religious events, these youths keep their shops open until late hours and continue to pass offensive remarks at the devotees. Furthermore, situations of tension have arisen in the past due to the surreptitious filming and photographing of women participating in Garba dances.

2. Mr Dhavalsinh Jhala, an office-bearer of a local Hindu organisation, said that these incidents have been occurring for the past three years. During this year’s Navratri festival, some Muslim youths were observed riding their two-wheelers recklessly through the event venue while engaging in obscene behaviour. Following a case of gang rape involving a minor Hindu girl, villagers scrutinised the relevant land records; this investigation revealed that the shops in question were indeed situated on encroached land. Currently, the administration has issued notices to the owners of these shops, directing the concerned parties to submit valid ownership documents. Assurances have been given that strict action will be taken in the absence of such documentation.

Editorial Perspective

Hindus feel that such incidents should not occur, especially given that the BJP has been in power in Gujarat for over three decades! By now, it is expected that the Government should have already taken action against these shops.