In yet another case of targeting the Muslim minority in India, several Muslim youths have been implicated in a fabricated case to justify action against the community in the BJP-ruled Indian state of Rajasthan.  The accusation of blackmailing five non-Muslim girls by the detained Muslim youths lacks any strong evidence, raising concerns that the case is part of a broader pattern of falsely implicating Muslims under fabricated charges to justify bulldozer action against them. 

Following protests by Hindutva organizations in Bhiwaar, Bhilwara, and Ajmer, the administration launched a bulldozer drive against the township. Demolition notices have been issued to the families of the accused. Three of the detained Muslim youths are minors. The court has sent the accused to five-day police remand.  The Hindutva organizations have demanded capital punishment for the accused, along with the demolition of their houses.

“We will not stop until the culprits are hanged and their illegal constructions are razed,” said a protester, Ankur Shukla, during the protest.  The newly formed BJP government in Rajasthan has taken a proactive stance, appearing to support the demands of the protesters. The Vijaynagar Municipality issued demolition notices to the families of the accused on February 20 and 21, requiring house owners to provide proof of ownership.   The notices warn that failure to do so will result in demolition.

“If proof is not provided within the given time, the administration will initiate demolition action against illegal constructions, the cost of which will be borne by the residents,” the notice stated.  Muslim community leaders condemned the notices and arrests, calling them an attempt to malign the Muslim population and stoke communal tensions.  Rights groups have urged a fair and impartial investigation to prevent further injustices against the community.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)