Tensions Rise in Hathras as Muslim Workers Barred from Temple Construction

Hathras: Following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, a group of individuals allegedly prevented two Muslim labourers from continuing their construction work at Shri Balkeshwar Mahadev temple in the Sethji Ka Tabela locality of Hathras on Thursday.

The workers, hired for ongoing renovation activities, were reportedly confronted by members of a group led by Praveen Varshney, secretary of the Association of Democratic Human Rights. The group asked the labourers to stop immediately, claiming that they would no longer engage Muslims for temple-related tasks.

Varshney, while commenting on the incident, stated, “There is widespread outrage across the country over the terror incident. People are urging the government to act firmly. From here on, Hindu workers will complete the construction at the temple site.”

This intervention halted the work at the religious premises. The event has stirred discussions around communal harmony, employment discrimination, and freedom of occupation in sensitive times.

When approached for a response, Station House Officer Girish Chandra Gautam from the local police station said that he had no prior information about the incident and would look into the matter.

The situation has highlighted deepening communal sentiments in certain pockets, raising concern among civil rights observers who fear such actions may lead to greater social division if not addressed promptly.

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