A historic mosque within the Muzaffarnagar jail premises, established during the British era in 1838, is at the center of a new controversy. This mosque, along with a temple located side by side, has traditionally served both Hindu and Muslim communities residing near the jail for over a century. However, a recent decision by the jail administration to prohibit Muslims from offering namaz has ignited significant backlash.New Restrictions and Community ReactionFor years, Muslims living in the vicinity of Muzaffarnagar jail have used the mosque for prayer. This practice, deeply ingrained in the community, has now been abruptly halted. The jail administration, citing security concerns, has barred local Muslims from entering the mosque. This decision was enforced by security personnel, who turned away worshippers at the jails outer gate.The move has incited widespread frustration among the local Muslim community. Residents claim that the jailor and security staff have treated them disrespectfully and issued threats of imprisonment. यूपी : मुजफ्फरनगर जेल परिसर में बनी मस्जिद में बाहरी मुस्लिमों के नमाज पढ़ने पर रोक लगाई। यहां सिर्फ जेल परिसर के कर्मचारी व परिजन ही नमाज पढ़ सकेंगे। इसके पीछे जेल प्रशासन ने सुरक्षा का हवाला दिया है। स्थानीय मुस्लिमों का कहना है कि वो इस मस्जिद में कई दशक से नमाज पढ़ रहे थे। pic.twitter.com/iQ4vhmD2P8— Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) August 15, 2024Jail Administrations ResponseIn response to the outcry, the jail superintendent has dismissed the allegations as baseless. He reiterated that the restriction on entry is a necessary security measure. The superintendent explained that the prohibition applies to all outsiders, not just Muslims, to ensure the safety of prison staff and their families who reside within the jail premises.
