Ban on Muslim traders near temples: Delegation meets Pejawar Mutt seer

Udupi: A delegation of Udupi district Sauhardha Samithi visited Sri Vishwaprasanna Tirtha Swamiji of Pejawar Mutt on Wednesday in the backdrop of recent developments in Udupi district. The visit was part of the attempts to bridge the communal divide.

The saffron outfits have been demanding a complete ban on Muslim vendors opening stalls near temples during fairs. The demand is strong in Coastal Karnataka where there are many temples. The Hindu outfits’ demand has triggered the apprehensions of a communal divide in the region.

The Sauhardha Samithi delegation led by Haji Abubakker Athrady met the seer and sought his support to maintain communal harmony. Sri Vishwaprasanna Tirtha Swamiji is a member of the Ayodhya Sri Ram Janmabhoomi Committee and is one of the influential religious leaders of the region.

Abubakker said that for long, the Muslim traders were earning livelihood by setting stalls outside the temples. They maintain cordial relationship with the Hindus. He also assured that the Hindu sentiments would not be hurt.

Meanwhile, the Pejawar Mutt pontiff, after hearing the delegation’s grievances, assured sincere efforts to resolve the issue. “Hindu society has been upset as their sentiments are hurt due to many events. Harmony is needed in society. But it is not possible if a few religious leaders discuss it or give suggestions. The solutions should come from the society itself. Cooperation from all sections of society is necessary to solve the tense situation,” he said.