Pune: Mulshi Villages Bar Non-Local Muslims from Mosques After Pahalgam Terror Attack

Pirangut, 4th May 2025: In the aftermath of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, a ripple of fear and tension appears to have reached the Mulshi taluka of Pune district. In a controversial and unprecedented move, gram panchayats in several villages—Ghotawade, Pirangut, Wadki, and Lavale—have passed resolutions barring Muslims from outside the area from offering prayers in local mosques.

Banners announcing the decision have been put up in public places, triggering concern, confusion, and growing unease among the local Muslim population.

Mosques Reserved for “Local Muslims” Only

The resolutions, issued by gram panchayats and endorsed by local leaders and mosque committees, cite “security reasons” and “limited capacity” as the basis for the restrictions.

A public notice issued in Pirangut reads: “In a special meeting of villagers and local Muslim brothers, it has been decided that only local Muslims will be allowed to pray in the mosque. Migrant Muslims, those coming for business, and those from surrounding villages are prohibited from entering the mosque.”

The notice further claims that the growing crowd—especially on Fridays—has made it difficult to maintain law and order, prompting the move to prioritize residents.

Pirangut Police Patil Prakash Pawale defended the resolution, stating, “This decision has been taken keeping in mind the peace and security of the village.”

Local Authorities Cite Capacity Constraints

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone 2) Vishal Gaikwad of Pimpri Chinchwad Police said, “Due to limited seating capacity in the mosque, they are preferring locals first.” 

Senior Police Inspector Anil Vibhute, in-charge of Bavdhan police station, echoed this, saying, “So far, no complaint has been filed by any member of the Muslim community. The decision was reportedly made with the consent of all communities.”

Muslim Community Voices Concern

Despite the absence of formal complaints, the decision has stirred anxiety. A Muslim resident of Lavale, said, “Earlier, we used to offer prayers in a shed away from the village mosque. Now, even that feels uncertain. The atmosphere has become more frightening.”

A Masjid committee member expressed deep concern over the exclusion of non-local Muslims. “This mosque is the biggest in the entire taluka. People from outside have always come here. Now even our relatives won’t be able to come and pray. This is the first time in 76 years we’ve seen something like this.”

Communal Ripples After Pahalgam Attack

The heightened tension in these villages appears to be a direct fallout of the Pahalgam terror attack, though there have been no direct threats or incidents reported in the Pune district. The gram panchayat resolutions, however, signal a growing sense of apprehension in rural communities, with religion-based decisions potentially deepening divides.

What’s Next?

Legal experts say that while panchayats can issue local resolutions, such moves may clash with constitutional rights if they infringe on religious freedoms or target specific communities. The absence of police complaints may be due to fear of reprisal or a desire to avoid escalation.

For now, the situation remains delicate. Community leaders are calling for dialogue and understanding, warning that such exclusions could lead to more mistrust and long-term disharmony.