Is the Survey of Ancient Mosques in India a Necessary Measure or an Unjust Attack on Religious Freedom? The recent spate of lawsuits across India demanding surveys of ancient mosques to verify the presence of underlying temple ruins has ignited a firestorm of controversy. This controversial practice has sparked protests, raised critical questions of religious freedom, and even led to violence. Let's delve into this sensitive issue and explore the various perspectives and ramifications involved.

The Growing Controversy: Mosques and Temple Ruins

The controversy initially erupted with surveys of prominent mosques such as those in Varanasi and Mathura. The situation escalated dramatically after a similar order concerning a 16th-century mosque in Sambhal. Sadly, this action led to deadly violence. Now, petitions have been filed in Ajmer concerning the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, furthering escalating tensions across the country. The intertwining of religious sites and legal battles has pushed the nation to the brink, sparking a heated debate. Many question if this intense scrutiny respects religious freedom. The core argument against such surveys is that they undermine the spirit of communal harmony.

The Legal Battleground: Temple-Mosque Disputes

The issue is entangled with a complex legal web. Several court cases involving temple-mosque disputes have gained notoriety. These include disputes regarding the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi, the Shahi Idgah Mosque in Mathura, and others. Petitions often cite claims that these sites were constructed after destroying existing temples, triggering requests to allow Hindu prayers within these religious places. Such high-profile legal battles are only exacerbating underlying tensions. These ongoing cases represent more than just land disputes; they are clashes of faith, history, and the law. Analyzing each case and the legal precedents involved offers insight into the layers of complexities this issue involves.

The CPI(M)'s Concerns and Calls for Intervention

The CPI(M) has voiced profound concern regarding these ongoing litigations, underscoring their belief that they violate the intent and spirit of the Places of Worship (Special Provisions) Act, 1991. This Act is designed to prevent precisely the kind of litigation now gripping the nation. They believe that these continuous suits directly challenge the legal protection and security granted by this established legislation.

The Supreme Court's Role and Potential Intervention

The CPI(M) has also urged the Supreme Court to intervene in these lawsuits and stop further litigations. They rightly pointed out the Supreme Court's own Ayodhya dispute ruling in 2019, upholding the legality of the 1991 Act. They urge the higher courts to consistently apply this existing precedent. Without intervention, it remains likely the lawsuits will cause additional unrest and violence.

The Broader Political Context: Propaganda and Minority Rights

The CPI(M) further condemns what they see as the BJP-RSS and Hindutva groups whipping up religious passions and tensions through inflammatory propaganda. They have directly accused such outfits of utilizing such campaigns for political maneuvering. They caution against actions that are harming India's religious harmony and creating unnecessary tension. The CPI(M) criticizes these attempts, urging de-escalation, focusing on peaceful co-existence, and a strong legal framework upholding minority religious freedoms.

Impact on Minority Communities and National Unity

The impact of these events extends far beyond the courtrooms. The CPI(M) underscores the threat to religious minorities, particularly within Bangladesh, citing that religious minorities aren't receiving sufficient protection. They further suggest such acts harm the security and dignity of religious minorities. In the absence of clear leadership that supports harmony and mutual respect, violence and intolerance are far more likely to spread throughout the nation.

Take Away Points

• The ongoing surveys of ancient mosques are deeply controversial, creating serious tensions, and potentially leading to violence.
• The legal battles surrounding temple-mosque disputes challenge the 1991 Places of Worship Act, triggering concerns about legal precedent and fairness.
• The CPI(M) calls for urgent Supreme Court intervention to stop further inflammatory suits and reduce religious tensions.
• Political agendas appear intertwined with these actions, further impacting minorities' peace, security and well-being.
• Protecting minority religious rights is a paramount consideration for maintaining unity and harmony throughout the nation.