A recent controversy has erupted in Banda, Uttar Pradesh has erupted over the alleged illegal construction of a mosque and multiple shrines on Bambeshwar mountain, a site believed to hold deep historical and religious significance for Hindus.
The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal, have mobilized in protest, claiming the structures have been built on the mountain where Bhagwan Ram once offered Jalabhishek to Bhagwan Shiva. The groups have formally appealed to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, urging immediate action to dismantle the mosque and shrines, which they allege were constructed unlawfully during the COVID-19 lockdown period.
As per the media reports, the construction on the mountain began with a small shrine, which gradually expanded and transformed into a full-scale mosque. They claim that Muslim individuals started gathering and conducting daily prayer, with regular Friday prayers drawing even larger crowds.
The VHP and Bajrang Dal contend that this gathering could pose a security risk due to a sudden rise in the number of Muslims settling in the vicinity, an area they assert had no prior Mulsim population. VHP Mandal President Ashok highlighted the security implications, noting that unauthorized influx of new residents near the temple site.
The mountain and its sacred Shivalinga have a storied place in Hindu mythology, believed to be the site where Bhagwan Rama performed Jalabhishek to honor Bhagwan Shiva. According to the Hindu mythology, Bhagwan Shankar appeared before Rama at this location during his exile. The temple, known as Bamdev Bholenath, is managed by the local priest Puttan Maharaj, who voiced his opposition to the mosque’s presence, drawing parallels with other disputed sites such as Ayodhya, Kashi, and Mathura.
VHP representatives claim that the structures were gradually erected without permits, utilizing makeshift means to develop the site. VHP official Chandramohan Bedi expressed frustration, suggesting the use of superstition to manipulate the local populace and gain ground on the sacred mountain. The organisation voiced concerns over the safety of the temple and other Hindu sites in the region if the unauthorized structures are allowed to remain.
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