Meghalaya: Forum Urges Probe Into Tura Mosque Incident
Shillong Muslim Forum has urged the Meghalaya government to conduct an impartial probe into the alleged attack on Tura Jama Masjid during unrest in West Garo Hills.
SHILLONG- The Shillong Muslim Forum has appealed to the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K. Sangma, seeking a thorough and impartial investigation into the alleged attack on the historic Tura Jama Masjid during recent unrest in West Garo Hills.
In a formal representation, the forum urged the state government to take immediate measures to safeguard religious institutions and maintain communal harmony in the region.
According to the forum, the alleged incident involved miscreants attacking the mosque premises and reportedly assaulting the Imam and the Muwazzin. The organisation described the incident as a serious concern that could undermine the long-standing tradition of peaceful coexistence among communities.
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The forum stated that the incident may constitute violations under several provisions of the Indian Penal Code, including Section 295 relating to damage or defilement of a place of worship, Section 295A concerning acts intended to outrage religious feelings, Section 153A dealing with promotion of enmity between communities, Section 307 for attempt to murder, and Section 436 relating to destruction of property by fire.
The forum also referred to Article 25 of the Constitution of India, which guarantees citizens the fundamental right to freely profess, practise, and propagate religion.
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Established in 1885, the Tura Jama Masjid is regarded as one of the oldest mosques in the North-East region and is considered an important religious and historical landmark for the local community.
Reports also suggested that unidentified individuals allegedly attempted to set fire to the mosque during the incident. However, rainfall reportedly prevented the fire from spreading and causing significant damage.
The Shillong Muslim Forum has called on the state administration to identify those responsible for the alleged attack and take appropriate legal action, while also ensuring the protection of religious institutions across the state.
The organisation emphasised that maintaining communal harmony and protecting places of worship are essential for preserving peace and mutual respect among communities.
