Mathura: In Uttar Pradesh, a controversy has arisen over the awarding of a contract to a Muslim contractor for installing steel railings in the corridors and courtyard of the Banke Bihari Mandir. The Hindu pandits of Braj and the Shri Krishna Janmabhoomi Sangharsh Trust have strongly opposed this decision. In a letter to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Dinesh Falahari Maharaj, president of the trust, demanded the cancellation of the contract awarded to Salim Ahmed, also known as Salim Khan, of Meerut-based Kanika Construction.
Reports differ on Salim’s exact role in the company, with some stating he is the owner and others claiming he is a key partner and a Congress leader. The Mathura ADM is also suspected of having influenced the awarding of the tender. Salim Khan had previously been awarded a contract to distribute food packets during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dinesh Falahari Maharaj said that residents of Braj are opposed to allowing individuals they consider “opponents of Sanatan Dharma” into the sacred site where Maa Radha and Bhagwan Krishna performed the Maharas. He reportedly stated, “If people who consume beef and consider Hindus infidels enter Banke Bihari’s courtyard, even our Kanhaiya will be displeased.”
It has been alleged that Salim Ahmed Khan secured the contract by concealing his religious identity. Falahari Maharaj has called for a high-level investigation, questioning why, when numerous skilled Hindu contractors are available, a so-called “descendant of the Mughals” was allowed to work within the Mandir premises. He further demanded that Muslim entry be restricted within a one-kilometre radius of the Banke Bihari Mandir.
The Hindu pandits have expressed that entrusting the renovation or beautification of Hindu Mandirs to individuals they believe are linked to historical invaders, who once offered prayers at Mandirs in Mathura, Kashi, and Ayodhya, constitutes an affront to the faith of millions of Hindus.
