MALIHABAD TENSION: Hindu Groups Halted After Hanuman Chalisa Protest at Disputed Kila Site

Tension prevailed in Uttar Pradesh’s Malihabad after Hindu organizations staged a protest over a disputed religious site linked to the Raja Kans Pasi fort controversy. The demonstration intensified after protesters attempted to move toward the site to perform religious rituals and recite Hanuman Chalisa on the occasion of Bada Mangal. The disputed structure is described differently by the two communities. While members of the Muslim community refer to it as a maqbara, several Hindu groups and members of the Pasi community claim the site is historically connected to Raja Kans Pasi and an ancient Hindu structure. The disagreement has now escalated into a broader religious and political issue in the region. Heavy police deployment was seen near the site as authorities attempted to prevent any escalation. Protesters carrying prayer plates and religious material gathered in the area demanding permission to perform puja and Sundarkand recitation at the disputed location. However, police stopped the group before they could proceed further and convinced them to perform only a symbolic prayer from a distance. Leaders of the protesting groups initially warned of larger demonstrations and even hinted at protests targeting the residence of Yogi Adityanath if permission was denied. Later, after discussions with senior police officials, the protesters agreed to withdraw peacefully and said they would now pursue the matter through legal channels and the courts. The administration maintained that law and order remained the top priority and restrictions were imposed to avoid communal tension ahead of Bakrid. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as the controversy surrounding the disputed site has triggered fresh debate over historical claims, religious rights and sensitive heritage issues in the state.