Communal Harmony at Risk: Examining the Nuh Temple Incident

On 31st July, a chaotic and violent incident unfolded at the Nalhad temple in Nuh, Mewat, Haryana, where thousands of Hindu devotees were gathered for the Jalabhishek Yatra on Shravan Somvar. An Islamic mob, reportedly comprising around 800-900 individuals, launched an attack on the temple attendees. As per the FIR filed by Assistant Sub Inspector Dharmendra, the rioters not only resorted to violence but also raised slogans of ‘Allah-Hu-Akbar’ and ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ during the assault. This incident has sparked tensions in the region and raised concerns about communal harmony.

The Nuh Temple incident has raised concerns about communal harmony in the region, as the violent clash between Hindu devotees and an Islamic mob threatens to escalate tensions and disrupt peaceful coexistence. A thorough examination of the incident is crucial to understanding the underlying factors and working towards fostering a harmonious society.

The FIR, lodged under various sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Arms Act, and the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act, mentioned that the mob comprised individuals like Lukman, Sahil Wajid Hussain, Jaakar, Mushtaq, and others whose identities are yet to be determined. The police officials stationed at the temple, including ASI Dharmendra, ASI Arun Singh, Head Constable Jitendra, and several home guards, found themselves in a critical situation as they attempted to maintain peace and control the situation.

According to ASI Dharmendra’s complaint, the trouble began when the mob of specific communities started moving towards the Shiv Mandir, apparently with a premeditated intention to cause disruption during the religious program. The attackers were armed with batons, sticks, stones, and illegal weapons, and they raised incendiary slogans of ‘Allah-Hu-Akbar’ while approaching the temple.

The police officials tried to reason with the mob and prevent them from attacking, but their efforts were met with violent retaliation. The attackers started pelting stones and even opened fire on the devotees and the police personnel present at the temple, all the while continuing to chant ‘Allah-Hu-Akbar’ slogans. During this attack, two home guards, Bir Singh and Trilok, sustained injuries.

Amid the escalating chaos, ASI Dharmendra resorted to firing three warning shots in the air in an attempt to disperse the mob. However, instead of retreating, the rioters turned their fury towards parked vehicles, causing widespread damage. They poured petrol on the vehicles and used petrol-filled bottles to set them ablaze, all the while raising provocative slogans like ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ and ‘Allah-Hu-Akbar.’

These Pakistan lovers seemingly appreciate the challenges Pakistan faces, such as food and financial crises, and hold affection for its culture. However, it is indeed surprising that they fail to exhibit the same level of love and pride for their own nation, India, which is rapidly emerging as one of the most progressive and significant countries in the world. It is disheartening to witness members of a particular religious community harboring negative sentiments towards the very country that has provided them with education, livelihood, and countless opportunities.

Such behavior seems contradictory to the teachings of Islam, which emphasize love and respect for the country in which one resides.