Uttarakhand: Hindutva Group Halts Muslim Prayer in Rishikesh Over Alleged Mosque Plans.

Hindutva Group Interrupts Muslim Prayer in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand to Foil a Planning to Erect a New Mosque in Hindu Area. 

Upendra Bharti | HENB | Dehradun | Oct 15, 2025:: A contentious incident of religious protest has unfolded in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, where members of the Hindu Suraksha Seva Sangh, a Hindutva organization, interrupted Muslims offering namaz inside a private residence. The incident, which occurred on October 12, 2025, has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the demographic change in the region with a severe influx of Muslim population.

According to eyewitnesses, the Hindutva activists entered the premises, halted the ongoing namaz, and demanded to see the Aadhaar cards of the individuals present. The interruption appears to stem from suspicions or vigilance activities by the group regarding religious practices in the area. One of the Muslim men’s Aadhaar details show as a resident of Saharanpur district, Uttar Pradesh.

Background of the Incident

The private residence where the namaz was being offered is located in a predominantly Hindu area of Rishikesh. Muslims from the local area and outside, mainly traders, laborers, and small business owners, have been assembling at the residence on Fridays to offer namaz. The Hindu residents had been protesting against these gatherings, claiming that they were changing the local religious atmosphere.

Previous Incidents of Interfaith Tensions

This incident is not isolated. In September 2023, members of a right-wing group razed down at least three Muslim shrines (dargahs) in separate incidents in Rishikesh’s Prem Nagar area. The demolition was carried out amid chants of “Jai Shri Ram” and was live-streamed on Facebook by a Hindutva leader, Radha Semwal Dhoni. The incident sparked widespread outrage and raised concerns about the ‘land jihad’ to capture Hindu or Government lands by Muslim communities in the region.

Police Response

The Rishikesh police have faced criticism for their response to these incidents. Despite multiple reports and videos surfacing on social media, no arrests have been made, and the police have not issued an official statement. Hindu groups demand increased police action against Islamic aggression in Devabhoomi (Land of God) of Uttarakhand.

Implications and Concerns

These incidents have significant implications for the social fabric of Rishikesh and the broader region. They highlight the growing tensions between different religious communities and the need for authorities to take measures to prevent further escalation. The incidents also raise concerns about the freedom of religion and the tendency of Muslim communities to spread their faith without considering the Hindu character of Rishikesh.

Community Reactions

The local Muslim community has expressed fear and anxiety following these incidents. Many have called for greater protection and security measures to ensure their safety and ability to practice their faith without intimidation. But, Hindus are united to stop the Islamic aggression in the region.
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