BJP MLA’s Son Faces Backlash After Alleged Call to Sack Muslim Workers in Indore
Traders from both Hindu and Muslim communities protest against divisive remarks, demand protection of constitutional rights.
Indore, Madhya Pradesh: A major controversy has erupted in Indore after Eklavya Singh Gaur, son of BJP MLA Malini Gaur, allegedly urged local shopkeepers to remove Muslim employees from their businesses a remark that has sparked protests and widespread condemnation.
In response, traders from both communities held a protest march on Wednesday, moving from Bajaj Khana Chowk to Rajbada, demanding respect for their constitutional rights and communal harmony. Protesters held placards with messages like “Is being a Muslim our fault?” and “What will you gain by disrupting Hindu-Muslim unity?”
Mohammad Gulzar, a trader who has worked in the market for 35 years, expressed deep concern. “We are being sidelined just because we are Muslims. We are citizens of this country why are we being treated like outsiders?” he said.
Support also came from Hindu traders. Balwant Singh Rathore, who protested alongside his Muslim business partner Mohd Haroon, emphasized that livelihood opportunities should not be based on religion. “We’ve always worked and grown together,” said Haroon, highlighting decades of shared business ties and community life.
The situation escalated further on September 25, when Seetlamata Market, a key trading hub, wore a deserted look. Local reports claimed Muslim vendors and workers were being forced out, which significantly reduced footfall and sales.
Adding to the tensions, several Muslim traders who joined the peaceful protest were reportedly summoned by police. Advocate Zaid Pathan, President of the Association of the Muslim Community, alleged that these police actions were influenced by pressure from right-wing groups. “This is an attempt to intimidate and silence the community,” he said.
The opposition Congress party condemned the incident and called for immediate legal action. City Congress president Chintu Chouksey accused Eklavya Gaur of trying to create communal divisions. “This is a calculated attempt to disturb peace and harmony in the city. We demand that an FIR be filed and action taken under the law,” he stated.
So far, there has been no official response from Eklavya Singh Gaur regarding the allegations.
