(Left) AAP Leader Atishi (Right) Delhi Lieutenant Governor (L-G) VK Saxena
Amidst the ongoing Navratri festival, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government’s decision to demolish two Hindu temples in West Delhi has sparked outrage among local Hindus. The move, which was reportedly ordered by AAP minister Atishi, has drawn criticism from Delhi Lieutenant Governor (L-G) VK Saxena, who stayed the demolition action ahead of Ram Navami.
Reports indicate that AAP minister Atishi had ordered the demolition of the Jai Shiv Bhola Mandir in Tilak Nagar and the Jai Shri Mata Mahakali Mandir at Khyala Road on April 15. However, the decision was met with criticism, with locals alleging that the Hindu community was being deliberately targeted by the Delhi government.
In response to the controversy, Delhi LG VK Saxena intervened, stopping the demolition of the temples. It was reported that the LG expressed concerns that the actions of AAP leader Atishi could potentially escalate communal tensions, particularly during Navratri and while the model code of conduct is in effect.
The decision to demolish the temples was originally taken by the Public Works Department (PWD) in February of this year. During a meeting, several structures, including the two temples in question, were discussed for demolition due to their location on the roadside, which allegedly caused traffic issues. However, only the two temples were approved for demolition.
PWD officials had reportedly sought logistics and police assistance for the demolition on multiple occasions, with the action scheduled for April 15. However, the stay order issued by the Delhi LG halted the process.
Despite the stay on demolition, the local Hindus are deeply upset by the AAP government’s decision. Many believe that the demolition of Hindu temples, especially during Navratri, is an act of deliberate targeting by the government.
The decision by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government in Delhi to target Hindu temples for demolition during the ongoing Navratri festival has drawn strong condemnation from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In a press conference, BJP leader Virendra Sachdeva criticized the AAP government’s actions, stating that they reflect a blatant disregard for religious sentiments and harmony.
Sachdeva expressed dismay over the timing of the demolition, highlighting that Navratri holds special significance for worshippers of Mother Bhagwati across the country, particularly in Delhi. He accused the AAP government of deliberately targeting temples and questioned the motives behind selecting these religious sites for demolition.
The BJP leader accused AAP leader Atishi of orchestrating the demolition efforts, noting that a meeting to discuss the removal of encroachments was held on February 9. While several sites were discussed during the meeting, Atishi specifically singled out two Hindu temples for demolition, despite Navratri festivities being underway.
Highlighting the cultural and religious significance of Navratri, Sachdeva emphasized the importance of maintaining harmony and respect for religious sentiments during such auspicious occasions. He criticised the AAP government for its alleged bias and discriminatory actions against the Hindu community.
Sachdeva also pointed out that the temples marked for demolition had been part of the local landscape for approximately 35 years, suggesting that their removal was unwarranted and unjustified.
BJP leader Virendra Sachdeva accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of attempting to incite communal tensions by targeting Hindu temples for demolition. He stated that the situation escalated quickly, with a large number of people gathering in protest after learning about the demolition attempt.
However, the intervention of Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena helped bring the situation under control. Sachdeva asserted that the AAP, facing electoral setbacks, resorted to such actions as a means of attacking Sanatan. The incident highlights the growing tensions and political dynamics surrounding the demolition of temples in Delhi.
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