Congress MP Raises Concerns Over Ajmer Dargah Controversy, Sambhal Violence

New Delhi - Congress MP Imran Pratapgarhi submitted a Suspension of Business notice in the Rajya Sabha today, seeking to discuss the recent controversy surrounding the Ajmer Sharif Dargah and the violence in Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal.

Pratapgarhi cited the petition questioning the historical identity of the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, which claims it was built over a Shiva temple, as a cause for concern. A court in Ajmer admitted the petition, issuing notices to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the Ajmer Dargah Committee, and the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs. He emphasized the importance of the Dargah as an integral part of India's composite culture and heritage and expressed apprehension over the anxiety caused among citizens by the petition.

He drew a parallel to the tragic events in Sambhal, where violence erupted on November 24 during a court-ordered survey of a mosque, also claimed to be built on a Hindu temple site. Four people died and many were injured in the clashes after residents opposed the survey. Pratapgarhi framed these incidents as part of a "disturbing pattern of rising tensions" that threaten social harmony.

The Congress MP, under Rule 267 of the Rajya Sabha rules, requested the House to suspend its regular business to deliberate on the broader implications of these events and reaffirm its commitment to ensuring harmony across the country. He stressed that promoting brotherhood among all Indians, transcending religious, linguistic, and regional differences, is crucial for India's unity and integrity.