Mahamandaleshwar Swami Prabodhanand Giri has sparked controversy after supporting the removal of a mosque from the Saharanpur Collectorate premises, suggesting dissenters move to Pakistan or Bangladesh.
- Mahamandaleshwar Prabodhanand Giri supported the administrative action of removing a mosque from the Saharanpur Collectorate premises.
- He made a controversial statement suggesting that those aggrieved by the action should migrate to Pakistan or Bangladesh, offering to pay their fare.
- He claimed a sacred Hindu well existed beneath the structure, calling for a thorough investigation.
- The religious leader praised CM Yogi Adityanath's law and order administration in Uttar Pradesh.
A significant controversy has erupted in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, following the removal of a mosque located within the Collectorate premises. Mahamandaleshwar Swami Prabodhanand Giri, who traveled from Uttarakhand to Saharanpur, visited the SSP office to congratulate senior police officials on the action. Swami Giri asserted that the Collectorate is the nerve center of governance and administration and should be used exclusively for administrative purposes.
During his visit, the Mahamandaleshwar praised the SSP for securing the premises, alleging that illegal activities had been occurring within the complex for a long time. He emphasized that the police did not act arbitrarily but followed the orders of the magistrate and adhered to the legal process.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this incident underscores the increasing trend of using administrative machinery to resolve long-standing religious land disputes. By framing the issue as a matter of 'securing administrative centers,' the state government is aligning its governance with a narrative of reclaiming public spaces, which often leads to sharp communal polarization.
One of the most contentious points raised by Swami Giri was the discovery of a well-like structure during the demolition. He linked this to Hindu religious traditions, claiming that the mosque was illegally constructed over an ancient well. While he admitted that the investigation into the well's origins is ongoing, he urged a full probe to uncover the truth.
"Administrative complexes must remain neutral zones of governance; any illegal encroachment, regardless of the nature, undermines the authority of the state."
The Mahamandaleshwar also questioned the significance of bricks found on-site bearing the years 1906 and 1909. He suggested that these dates might be trademarks of a brick kiln rather than historical markers of the building's age, accusing some of trying to mislead the media. Regarding the Waqf Board's claims, he stated that if the land truly belonged to the Waqf, the concerned party should have produced valid documents in court.
The situation escalated when Swami Prabodhanand Giri addressed those opposing the action. In a highly provocative statement, he said, "If anyone has a problem with the mosque being removed, they can go to Pakistan or Bangladesh. If they don't have the money for the ticket, I am ready to pay the fare." He added that India is governed by the Constitution and the law, and everyone must abide by it.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why did Mahamandaleshwar Prabodhanand Giri make the 'Pakistan' comment?
He made the remark as a challenge to those protesting the removal of the mosque from the government administrative premises.
2. Was the demolition legally authorized?
According to the administration and Swami Giri, the action was carried out based on orders from the City Magistrate and following due legal process.