Tension has erupted in Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh after local right-wing Hindu activists opposed a Muslim man for buying a house in Gaushala Pashmi, a locality described as predominantly Hindu. The issue has led to allegations of threats, intimidation and attempts to create communal division in the area.
Ali Hasan, who purchased the property, accused a group of activists of harassing his family and pressuring them to leave. Speaking to The Hindu, he said, “In the recent past, on different occasions, a group of individuals, four to five known and 15 to 20 unknown, came to my house and forcefully asked us to leave the place and threatened us with dire consequences.”
Hasan alleged that the activists falsely described his house purchase as an example of “house jihad” and claimed that Muslims were not needed in a Hindu locality. He said posters were put up in the area announcing continuous meetings to build pressure on his family. Demonstrations were also reportedly organised against them.
Both sides have filed complaints at the Kotwali police station, accusing each other of creating nuisance and issuing threats. Police officials have not yet released a detailed public statement, but the situation remains sensitive.
Congress Targets BJP Government Over Law and Order
The controversy has triggered political reactions, with the Indian National Congress criticising the Bharatiya Janata Party-led state government. Congress leaders alleged that anti-social elements were being emboldened and that communal harmony was being disturbed.
A senior Uttar Pradesh Congress leader, Anil Yadav, said, “We will send a party delegation to the colony to support the victim family. It is a known fact that there is an organised pattern across Uttar Pradesh to disturb communal harmony and terrorise minorities. This incident of disturbing a Muslim for buying property in a Hindu dominated colony is the latest of many such cases.”
He further claimed that communal statements by leaders give confidence to fringe groups. “When the Chief Minister makes communal remarks, such groups feel that no one will dare to take action against them,” he added.
Allegations of Polarisation and Demand for Action
The term “house jihad” has been used by some right-wing groups in recent years to question property purchases by Muslims in Hindu-majority areas. Critics argue that such claims are baseless and create unnecessary fear among communities.
Ali Hasan maintained that his purchase was completely legal and questioned why religion should matter in property transactions. “We bought the house legally. Why should anyone object to where we live?” he said.
Congress leaders have urged the administration to act firmly and restore confidence among residents. “The administration must act decisively to build public trust in situations which impact communal harmony,” Anil Yadav said.
