Hyderabad MP and AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has raised concern over what he described as a “wave of demolitions” targeting mosques, dargahs, and other Muslim religious structures in Rajasthan’s border districts, including Bikaner, Phalodi, Jaisalmer, and Barmer.
According to Owaisi’s statement, the issue involves multiple religious sites allegedly being demolished or marked for removal by authorities, with notices reportedly issued to a large number of other structures.
AIMIM Says 13 Religious Sites Already Demolished
Speaking to AIMIM Bikaner District President Shafi Jameel Qasmi, Owaisi cited that several demolitions have already taken place across the region.
Qasmi said, “Four mosques in Bikaner and nine mosques and dargahs across Phalodi, Jaisalmer, and Barmer have already been demolished.”
He also said that notices have been issued to hundreds of other religious places, creating fear among local communities. Among the structures mentioned is the nearly 250-year-old dargah of Hazrat Mahmood Shah Jilani located on the Ramgarh–Tanot bypass road in Jaisalmer.
‘Only Muslim Religious Sites Being Targeted,’ Says AIMIM
The AIMIM leader alleged that the demolitions are being justified on the grounds of national security and land-related concerns, but questioned the selective nature of the action.
“These demolitions are being justified on national security grounds. However, none of the people in these areas have ever been involved in any such activities. Only Muslim places of worship are being targeted,” Qasmi said.
He further alleged that while authorities initially cited encroachment on grazing land, the justification later changed in some cases where ownership documents were shown.
“In cases where it has been shown that the structures stand on private property, the allegation has reportedly shifted to lack of permissions or approvals,” he added.
Demolition Drive Sparks Political Debate
The issue has triggered political reactions, with Owaisi calling for immediate intervention. Tagging Union Home Minister Amit Shah on social media, he described the alleged actions as discriminatory.
“These discriminatory and targeted demolitions are illegal and must be stopped immediately,” Owaisi said, urging authorities to take corrective action.
