A video circulating on social media has shown individuals performing namaz inside an under-construction municipal hall in Joshimath, Uttarakhand. This incident has led to significant objections from various Hindu organizations and has heightened communal sensitivities in the locality.

Reports indicate that the prayer took place on Wednesday evening in the Meeth Bazaar area, where the Nagar Palika building is in the process of being built.

Video Viral

Witnesses claim that members of a specific community gathered to offer prayers within the unfinished structure. The viral footage depicts multiple individuals engaged in prayer activities. Local residents assert that the facility is intended to serve as a table tennis hall for athletes. The use of a government building for religious observances has raised concerns among the community.

After the video emerged on Wednesday night, representatives from Hindu organizations held discussions with the police and Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Chandrashekhar Vashishtha the following day to express their dissatisfaction with the event. In response, the administration acknowledged the incident and stated that it is currently under review. Officials have urged both parties to uphold community harmony.

“Major lapse”: BJP

SDM Vashishtha confirmed that the administration is addressing the situation and pledged to take necessary steps to prevent similar occurrences in the future. He emphasized the importance of fostering a peaceful and amicable atmosphere among local residents.

Local BJP officials, including Mandal President Amit Sati and General Secretary Sameer Dimri, described the incident as a “major lapse” on the part of the Nagar Palika authorities. They cautioned that, should a similar situation arise, Hindu organizations may take a more rugged stance and initiate protests to express their discontent.

The events have sparked a broader conversation about the appropriate use of public property and the role of local governance in maintaining communal harmony in Uttarakhand. Residents continue to express their opinions on the sensitive nature of religious practices in community spaces, underscoring the need for careful consideration in such matters moving forward.

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