Worrying trend of increasing attacks on religious events

New Delhi: In recent times, incidents of Hindu festivals and events representing India’s rich cultural and religious traditions being targeted by anti-social elements have been increasing. One such incident came to light when pilgrims traveling in the Tapti-Ganga Express for the Maha Kumbh Mela held in Prayagraj were pelted with stones near Jalgaon in Maharashtra.

attack on mahakumbh pilgrims
The video of the incident was shared on social media by the pilgrims, in which they narrated their horrific ordeal. The victims appealed to the Prime Minister, Railway Minister and state officials to ensure the safety of trains.

A passenger said, “This train was carrying pilgrims for the royal bath of Mahakumbh. Suddenly there was an attack with stones. If the window glass had broken, serious injury could have occurred. “We demand immediate security measures.”

Such attacks have happened before too
This incident is not an isolated case. In 2024 also, there were similar attacks on trains carrying pilgrims to Ayodhya and other religious places. The role of illegal encroachment areas near railway lines was revealed in these incidents.

Incident reminiscent of 2002 Godhra incident
The attack on Mahakumbh pilgrims brings back painful memories of the 2002 Godhra train fire incident, where 59 kar sevaks returning from Ayodhya were brutally murdered. It appears that targeting religious events and processions is part of a deliberate strategy.

Incidents of stone pelting and violence at religious events have also been reported during Ram Navami, Hanuman Jayanti, Durga Puja immersion and Brij Mandal Yatra in Nuh district of Haryana.

Role of illegal encroachment and anti-social activities
Anti-social activities are on the rise in illegally encroached areas along the railway lines, posing a threat to national infrastructure and communal harmony. These incidents paint a grim picture of growing intolerance and targeted violence against religious gatherings in the country.

The government and administration need to take strict steps to stop these incidents so that the cultural and religious heritage of the country can be protected.