Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind president Maulana Mahmood Asad Madani has expressed concern over the communal tension that followed the killing of Vinod Kashyap in Dehradun’s Vikasnagar area and has urged authorities to ensure strict punishment for the guilty while protecting innocent citizens.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Maulana Madani described the murder as a serious crime and an act against humanity. Expressing sympathy with the family of the deceased, he said, “The killers should be given strict punishment according to law without any discrimination.”
The incident occurred in Bairagiwala village of Dehradun district, where Vinod Kashyap was allegedly killed during a dispute over irrigation water from a government tube well. Police have arrested four accused in connection with the case.
Jamiat Alleges Attacks on Muslim Homes and Mosques
Maulana Madani, however, alleged that after the murder, certain communal elements attempted to give the incident a Hindu-Muslim colour and created unrest in the area.
According to information received by Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind’s local unit, houses, shops and vehicles belonging to members of the Muslim community were allegedly set on fire following the incident. The organisation also claimed that mosques in the village were targeted and several Muslim families were forced to leave their homes due to fear and insecurity.
“Some mischievous and communal elements have poisoned the atmosphere and worked to divide people after this tragic incident,” Madani said.
He also alleged that inflammatory statements made by local political leaders further aggravated tensions in the area.
Concern Over Bulldozer Action
The Jamiat chief raised objections to the demolition of structures linked to the main accused, stating that action was taken without completing the required legal and judicial processes.
He said, “Such actions are against the Constitution, the rule of law and the principles of justice. India is a constitutional democracy where punishment is decided by courts, not by public anger or mob pressure.”
According to reports, authorities demolished a boundary wall, cowshed and two shops associated with the accused, citing illegal construction.
Letter Sent to Amit Shah
Maulana Madani said Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind has sent a detailed letter to Union Home Minister Amit Shah seeking urgent intervention.
The organisation has demanded a fair and transparent investigation into the murder case, strict punishment for those responsible, immediate action against communal violence and hate speech, and protection for innocent citizens affected by the unrest.
The letter also calls for the safe return of families who have reportedly fled the area, restoration of communal harmony, an independent inquiry into incidents of arson and attacks on religious sites, and compensation for affected families as well as the family of the deceased.
Copies of the letter have also been sent to the Governor of Uttarakhand, the Chief Minister, the Director General of Police and the Senior Superintendent of Police of Dehradun.
Appeal for Peace and Harmony
A delegation of Jamiat Ulema-e-Hind from Dehradun met Maulana Madani in New Delhi and submitted a report on the ground situation. Following the meeting, he instructed local Jamiat leaders to cooperate with authorities in maintaining peace and law and order.
Madani urged the administration to ensure that real offenders are punished while protecting innocent residents from violence and intimidation.
“National unity, constitutional values and communal harmony must be protected. Hate and division have no place in our society,” he said.
