Haryana: Panchayats restrict the entry of Muslim traders and target Muslim residents.

Over 50 panchayats in Rewari, Mahendergarh, and Jhajjar districts of Haryana have issued letters barring the entry of Muslim traders and requesting Muslim residents to submit their identity documents to the police. This action follows recent violence during a Hindu procession in the Nuh district, organized by VHP and Bajrang Dal on July 31, causing heightened tension in southern Haryana. The letters, signed by sarpanches, have raised concerns about discrimination and potential disruption of harmony in areas where the Muslim community comprises less than 2% of the population, mostly with families residing for multiple generations.

State Intervention: The sub-divisional magistrate of Narnaul (Mahendergarh), Manoj Kumar, acknowledged the letters seen on social media and, in response, instructed the block office to send show-cause notices to all the panchayats involved. Emphasizing the peaceful coexistence in these villages and the minimal presence of the minority community, Kumar expressed concern that such notices could disrupt the harmony. The state's response, though initiated through show-cause notices, highlights the need to address the potential repercussions of communal restrictions and maintain social cohesion.