Fatehpur: Communal tensions flared in Uttar Pradesh's Fatehpur on Monday, August 11, after members of a Hindu organisation vandalised a tomb, alleging it was constructed on top of an ancient Hindu temple.
The disputed structure, located in Abu Nagar's Rediya locality, led to a security clampdown, with the district administration deploying heavy police and Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) forces and barricading the site to prevent any further violence, as per a report by India Today.
The Disputed Mausoleum
The tomb, officially recorded under Khasra number 753 as Maqbara Mangi (National Property), became a flashpoint for members of the Math Mandir Sanrakshan Sangharsh Samiti and other Hindu groups, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
They claim that the site is a thousand-year-old temple dedicated to Thakurji and Lord Shiva. A viral video shows people waving saffron flags and violently chanting "Jai Shree Ram" outside the tomb.
Have a look at the video here:
BJP’s Fatehpur district president Mukhlal Pal, leading the agitation, alleged that the site, believed to be the tomb of Nawab Abdus Samad, bears symbols such as lotus carvings and a trident, which he says prove it was originally a temple.
“The form of our temple has been converted into a mosque. We Sanatan Hindus will not tolerate this… Tomorrow, on August 11, we will offer prayers at the temple at any cost,” he said as quoted by India Today, urging supporters to gather for a march and pooja. Pal also warned that the government would be held responsible if worship was obstructed.
Hindu Leaders Vow to Perform Pooja Despite Security Measures
The controversy has drawn in other Hindu outfits, as well. Bajrang Dal’s Fatehpur District Co-convenor Dharmendra Singh said, “We will offer prayers here at noon. The administration will not be able to stop us.”
Meanwhile, Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) State Vice President Virendra Pandey claimed the structure was a temple of Lord Bholenath and Shri Krishna, citing features like Parikrama Marg and a temple well. He demanded it be cleaned ahead of Janmashtami on August 16 and accused authorities of inaction despite prior notice.
With plans for a pooja underway and police forces on high alert, the situation remains tense, raising fears of a larger communal crisis if the negotiations fail.
