Ajmer Sharif Deewan Praises PM Modi's Chadar Offering for Shrine as Symbol of Communal Harmony

Ajmer Sharif dargah Deewan Zainul Abedin Ali Khan praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for sending a ceremonial chadar to the shrine. He stated that this gesture represents respect for all communities in India. The act was highlighted during an annual gathering of Sufi leaders and custodians at Ajmer Sharif, coinciding with the Urs of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti.

The spiritual leader of the Ajmer dargah emphasised that the prime minister's action reflects respect for India's diverse religious landscape. It also counters attempts to create discord over temple-mosque issues. Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti's shrine is a symbol of communal harmony, attracting both Hindu and Muslim devotees.

National Harmony Board Proposal

The gathering proposed establishing a National Harmony Board under PM Modi's leadership to foster peace nationwide. This initiative aims to promote unity and understanding among different communities across India. The proposal underscores the importance of maintaining harmony in a diverse society.

In related events, ceremonial chadars will be presented at the shrine on Tuesday on behalf of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. At the chief minister's residence, a chadar was given to BJP state minority morcha chief Hameed Khan Mewati, who will offer it at the shrine for the CM.

Chadar Offerings by Political Leaders

Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra, Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully, and other leaders plan to visit Ajmer to present the chadar on behalf of Kharge. This gesture signifies political leaders' participation in promoting communal harmony through symbolic acts.

On Saturday, Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju offered a chadar on behalf of Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the dargah. This act further emphasises the government's commitment to respecting religious traditions and fostering unity among different faiths.

Controversy Surrounding Ajmer Dargah

In November last year, controversy arose when a court in Ajmer accepted a petition alleging that the dargah was constructed over a Shiva temple. Notices were issued to the Ajmer Dargah committee, Ministry of Minority Affairs, and Archaeological Survey of India. Hindu Sena president Vishnu Gupta, who filed the petition, urged the prime minister not to send a chadar this time.

The Urs at Ajmer Dargah commemorates Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti's death anniversary. This annual event draws people from various backgrounds, highlighting its role as a centre for communal harmony and spiritual reflection.