Are Shopkeepers Facing Religious Harassment in Indore?
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Synopsis
In a recent statement, Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has accused the state government of enabling religious harassment against shopkeepers in Indore. His comments shed light on increased communal tensions and call for accountability from local authorities. Discover the implications of these allegations and the response from the government.
Key Takeaways
- Digvijaya Singh criticized the government for alleged religious harassment of shopkeepers.
- The Congress leader questioned police actions against a BJP MLA's son.
- He stressed the increase in communal violence in Madhya Pradesh.
- The Supreme Court guidelines aim to curb mob violence.
- Singh emphasized his long-standing commitment to the law.
Indore, Sep 27 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh has voiced strong criticism against the Mohan Yadav administration, claiming that shopkeepers in Indore are being subjected to harassment based on their religion.
Singh made these assertions during his visit to Sheetala Mata Market in Indore.
He questioned the police regarding the actions taken against BJP MLA Malini Gaud's son, Eklavya Singh Gaud, who allegedly instructed shop owners to dismiss employees belonging to a particular community.
"The core issue is the surge in communal violence in Madhya Pradesh, with members of the minority community facing harassment on religious grounds. The biased approach of the state administration has led to significant unrest among the populace," Singh remarked.
In a conversation with the media in Indore, the Congress MP recalled that in 2018, the Supreme Court issued guidelines aimed at preventing and addressing mob violence, recommending various measures.
"I filed a PIL in 2021 to inquire about the implementation of the Supreme Court's directives in Madhya Pradesh. The recent response from the state government to the court was astonishing, as it claimed that I had disrupted law and order," Singh stated.
Reflecting on his 50 years of political experience, he asserted that he has never violated the law.
"If I seek a meeting with the Chief Minister and am denied, I will protest. If that constitutes breaking the law, then I accept it," he challenged.
The Supreme Court had provided a comprehensive set of guidelines in 2018 to combat hate crimes, instructing states and union territories to implement preventive and corrective measures, including appointing nodal officers in each district to monitor such incidents.
Singh emphasized that the guidelines recommended appointing senior police officers (at the rank of SP and above) as nodal officers in districts to mitigate mob violence.
Additionally, state governments were directed to identify areas—districts, subdivisions, and villages—where mob violence or lynching had occurred over the previous five years.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach this situation with a balanced perspective. The allegations raised by Digvijaya Singh highlight significant concerns about religious discrimination and communal harmony in Madhya Pradesh. While the claims deserve scrutiny, it is essential to ensure that all voices are heard and that justice prevails without bias.
NationPress
27/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations made by Digvijaya Singh?
Digvijaya Singh alleges that shopkeepers in Indore are being harassed based on their religion, particularly by directives from a BJP MLA's son to dismiss employees of a specific community.
What actions has the Supreme Court taken regarding mob violence?
In 2018, the Supreme Court issued guidelines for states to prevent mob violence, including appointing nodal officers in each district to monitor such incidents.
What is the current situation in Indore regarding communal violence?
The situation in Indore is tense, with rising concerns about communal violence and the treatment of minority communities, as highlighted by recent statements from political leaders.
