Citizens from across India have signed an open letter to the Prime Minister, urging his intervention for the strict implementation of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991.
The letter, drafted by the Centre for Study of Society and Secularism, Mumbai, said there is an alarming trend of demands by fringe groups for archaeological surveys of mosques and dargahs, including Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi, Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, and Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura. These demands, often accompanied by judicial actions permitting such surveys, have raised concerns about violations of the constitution right and freedom of religion.
The 1991 law requires the maintenance of the religious character of places of worship is maintained as it stood on August 15, 1947. On December 12, the Supreme Court barred civil courts across the country from registering fresh suits challenging the ownership and title of any place of worship, and from ordering surveys of disputed religious places until the court decides on the constitutionality of the law
The signatories expressed concern over the silence of the leadership on this issue. The letter points out the litigations not only target the Muslim community but also undermine India's syncretic culture and heritage.
Referring to the Places of Worship Act, the letter emphasises its importance in preventing communal conflicts and maintaining social harmony. The Act was envisioned to stabilise the social fabric of the country and prevent divisive contestations over religious heritage, says the letter. However, the increasing challenges to this legislation are deepening communal fault lines and risking unrest, the letter adds.
The signatories have urged the Supreme Court to take suo motu action and instruct all district and sessions courts to respect and uphold the provisions of the law in both letter and spirit. They also call upon the Prime Minister to unequivocally condemn such divisive demands and take a firm stance against communal polarisation. The letter said that a clear and strong response is essential to restore confidence, security, and the rule of law among all citizens of the country, and uphold India's constitutional values and ensure justice, equality, and harmony for all its people.
