By Team Clarion
SRIRANGAPATNA – A violent attempt to forcibly enter the historic Jama Masjid in this town of Karnataka’s Mandya district has sparked alarm in the region. Members of Hindu Jagran Vedike (HJV) claimed that the mosque was built after demolishing an ancient Hanuman temple and demanded its replacement.
The incident occurred on Wednesday (December 3) during the Hanuman Mala Sankirtan Yatra, when participants stopped outside the mosque to perform kirtan before attempting to enter its premises. The protest quickly escalated tensions in the area.
A police spokesperson said, “Our teams acted immediately to prevent any breach of the mosque premises. The situation was brought under control within minutes, and no injuries were reported.”
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic. “A large crowd gathered outside the mosque, shouting slogans and demanding its demolition. It was frightening to see the aggressive behaviour. The police were the only reason the situation did not worsen,” said local resident Mohammed Imran.
Haji Farooq, a caretaker of the Jama Masjid, expressed concern over the repeated communal provocations. “This mosque has stood for centuries, serving the community faithfully. Attempts to portray it as a temple site are false and hurtful to the Muslim residents who pray here daily. We appeal to everyone to respect our place of worship,” he said.
The HJV members argued their claim, stating, “Historical records indicate that a Hanuman temple existed at this site. We demand that it be restored and a temple built.”
However, local authorities stressed that communal harmony must be maintained. Superintendent of Police Mandya district, Ravi Kumar, remarked: “We urge all groups to avoid provocative actions. Law and order will be strictly enforced, and any attempt to disturb communal peace will be met with legal action.”
While the situation has currently stabilised, the incident highlights the growing reach of communal tensions into southern states of the country, traditionally considered more peaceful in terms of religious coexistence. Community leaders are calling for dialogue and mutual respect to prevent future conflicts.
“The mosque is a historic and cultural heritage of Srirangapatna. Any attempt to threaten its sanctity threatens the communal fabric of our town,” said Amina Begum, a local social worker.
Authorities continue to monitor the area to ensure peace, while Muslim residents express anxiety about their safety and the repeated targeting of religious sites.
This story was originally published in clarionindia.net.
