Shillong, March 13: The Shillong Muslim Forum (SMF) has submitted a letter to the Chief Minister of Meghalaya expressing deep concern over the recent unrest in West Garo Hills and appealing for the protection of places of worship and the restoration of peace and communal harmony in the state.
In the letter, the forum conveyed concern over reports of damage to places of worship and other incidents of violence and destruction of property during the tensions, including the reported vandalisation of Tura Jama Masjid as well as the burning of offices and establishments in the affected areas.
The Forum stated that such incidents are deeply unfortunate and disturb the longstanding peace and harmony that communities in Meghalaya have shared for generations.
The Shillong Muslim Forum strongly condemned all forms of violence and vandalism against places of worship, community institutions, and public property, irrespective of the community or organisation involved.
The forum also reiterated that its appeal arises purely from concern for the protection of religious institutions and the safety and harmony of all communities living in the state.
As members of a minority community who have lived in Meghalaya for generations, the Forum stated that Muslims in Shillong deeply value peaceful coexistence and mutual respect with tribal communities.
The letter further acknowledged the concerns of indigenous communities regarding illegal immigration and stated that genuine non-tribal Muslims who have long been part of Meghalaya’s social fabric support lawful efforts to safeguard the rights, identity, and interests of the indigenous people of the state.
The forum also expressed concern over recent public calls stating “No Allahu Akbar in Meghalaya,” noting that the phrase “Allahu Akbar,” meaning “God is the Greatest,” is a sacred expression of faith used by Muslims during daily prayers and religious observances.
The Forum Shillong Muslim Forum clarified that, like every religion which has its own sacred expressions in different languages and traditions, the phrase holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims. At the same time, the Forum strongly condemned the misuse of any religious expression in acts of violence or wrongdoing.
The Shillong Muslim Forum appealed to the Government to ensure the protection of all places of worship and community institutions and to take appropriate steps to prevent such incidents from recurring while continuing efforts to restore peace and normalcy in the region, the letter was sign by Mr.Jocim Uddin Ahamed Presdient and Mr. Rehan R Warjri Secretary of the Shillong Muslim Forum.
