Prominent Hindi scholars Ashok Vajpeyi and Apoorvanand have sought urgent intervention from the Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, and Uttarakhand High Court Chief Justice Vipin Sanghi to prevent a potentially volatile "mahapanchayat" in Uttarakhand's Purola town on June 15. In an open letter, they express concern that the event could exacerbate communal tensions in the state, citing reports of Muslim traders being warned to leave Purola before the mahapanchayat.
They also highlight an ultimatum issued by the Vishva Hindu Parishad to the state's Muslim community to leave, raising apprehensions about targeted hate campaigns and intimidation.
The appeal by Vajpeyi and Apoorvanand follows a separate letter from 52 former civil servants to Uttarakhand's chief secretary and police chief, expressing similar concerns about communal tensions in the state. The rising tensions stem from the alleged kidnapping of a 14-year-old girl by individuals from different religious backgrounds in Purola on May 26, which local residents have labeled as a case of "love jihad." Subsequently, communal tension has engulfed the town, leading to protests, attacks on Muslim-owned properties, and the dissemination of threat notices.
The letter sent to the Chief Justices emphasizes the potential for widespread violence if the mahapanchayat proceeds and calls attention to the failure of the state government to adhere to guidelines outlined in the Tehseen Poonawalla judgment on addressing mob violence and lynching. The authors urge immediate action to protect the lives, property, and well-being of those under threat, including compensation and rehabilitation for those displaced by the hate campaign.
In response to these developments, Muslim religious leaders have reportedly called for a counter mahapanchayat on June 18, indicating the escalating tensions in the region. A letter petition has also been submitted to the Chief Justice of India, seeking intervention to prevent the proposed mahapanchayat and address the ongoing communal threats against Muslims.
The situation in Uttarkashi district remains volatile, and the appeals made by Vajpeyi, Apoorvanand, and other concerned individuals underscore the urgent need to prevent further communal discord and ensure the preservation of the country's secular fabric.
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