Members of the Hindu Raksha Dal staged a protest at the district headquarters demanding an investigation into claims of a buried ancient Shiva temple inside the campus of Darul Uloom Deoband in Uttar Pradesh’s Deoband.
The protest, led by Lalit Sharma, also saw demonstrators raising slogans against Iqra Hasan over her recent confrontation with police in Saharanpur.
Claim of Ancient Shiva Temple Beneath Darul Uloom
During the demonstration, Lalit Sharma claimed that a “buried ancient Shiva temple” exists nearly 14 feet below the Darul Uloom premises and called for a “fair and transparent investigation” into the matter.
He said the organisation would also seek legal intervention through the courts to push for an administrative inquiry.
“We demand a scientific survey by the Archaeological Department and concerned authorities to ensure a transparent and impartial investigation,” Sharma said while submitting a memorandum to the district administration.
The Hindu Raksha Dal alleged that the issue was serious and should be examined through technical and archaeological methods.
However, no official evidence has been publicly presented to substantiate the claim, and authorities have not announced any investigation into the matter.
Protest Over Iqra Hasan Controversy
The protest also focused on criticism of Iqra Hasan following a recent controversy linked to her visit to the DIG office in connection with the Monu Kashyap death case.
Demonstrators accused the MP of inappropriate behaviour toward police officials and demanded action against her. Some members of the group also reportedly made controversial remarks during the protest, drawing criticism over the language used against the woman parliamentarian.
Responding to questions regarding Hasan’s support from members of the Kashyap community, Sharma claimed those backing her were not genuine supporters from the community, a statement likely to trigger further political debate.
The protestors remained outside the district magistrate’s office for nearly an hour, raising slogans and submitting their demands to the administration.
In a provocative assertion, Sharma said, “A Shivling will be found 14 feet underground, and if it is not found, I am ready to be hanged.”
The matter has added to ongoing political tensions in western Uttar Pradesh, especially amid recent controversies involving Iqra Hasan and protests surrounding law enforcement action.
