Muslim traders barred from Ahilyanagar event

In a controversial move, villagers in Madhi in Ahilyanagar have passed a resolution barring Muslim traders from participating in the Kanifnath Maharaj Yatra, a significant religious event in the district, citing that some members of the community are not following traditions.

- Shrinivas Deshpande

PUNE:

The decision was reportedly made during a Gram Sabha meeting held on February 22, with villagers citing that Muslim traders do not follow Hindu rituals as the reason for the ban.

Madhi village, located in Ahilyanagar district, is about 175 km from Pune and has a population of 5,000, including 650 Muslims. The Kanifnath Maharaj Yatra, held annually, attracts thousands of devotees and traders from across the state. Over the years, people from different communities have participated in the event, setting up stalls to sell various goods.

However, this year, the Gram Sabha's decision has sparked concerns over religious discrimination and economic exclusion.

While local leaders supported the resolution, claiming it was necessary to maintain the sanctity of Hindu traditions during the yatra, others have raised objections, calling it unconstitutional and discriminatory.