Tension has gripped Jewar region of Greater Noida after a fracas between Hindus and Muslims over an alleged land dispute. Markets, shops and other institutions remained closed on the third consecutive day and people preferred to stay indoors. Security has been tightened and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) deployed to avert any untoward incident.
Both communities came to blows on Tuesday when it was reported that the Muslims had filled earth where Hindus perform rituals. In haste, a mahapanchayat (public meet) was called by the Hindus but the district administration did not assemblage of people due to security reasons. As news spread, people started gathering in groups.
The Hindus alleged illegal encroachment on land belonging to them and blamed the administration for blindsiding them despite prior information. They claimed the Muslims had illegally built a mosque and installed an electric
submersible pump (ESP). The Muslims had also reportedly opened the gates in front of the pond to impinge on the movement of Hindus. “People have been offering prayers here for the past 150 years. Why is the district administration pandering to Muslim interestsIJ” queried Himanshu Garg, a local resident.
Muslims, on the other hand, insisted the mosque was built on graveyard land, which is legit and that the Hindus are making heavy weather. The Muslims claimed the construction work was executed with the expressed permission of the local administration. Ergo, there was no question of hurting religious sentiments. “We have no fear,” said Chaman Khan, a local resident. Meanwhile, police officials have beefed up security and are monitoring movement. Four teams of PAC along with local police have been deployed in the area so far.