Muslim Community in South Goa Appeals for Mosque Reopening Ahead of Ramadan
In a significant development in Margao, members of the Muslim community have formally requested the South Goa district collector to deseal the Sunni Gulistan Masjid located at the Gogol Housing Board. This appeal comes as the holy month of Ramadan approaches, heightening the urgency for the mosque to be accessible for prayers.
Community Gathers in Protest Amid Police Presence
On Monday, a gathering of community members assembled outside the sealed mosque, with police personnel present to maintain order. The protesters emphasized that with only four days remaining until the start of Ramadan, the continued closure of the masjid for over a week is causing considerable distress. One representative articulated, "Ramzan is important for us. If investigations are expedited and the masjid is opened, we can hold prayers." They expressed frustration at being denied the opportunity to hear the Azan (call to prayer) and offer namaz (prayers) within their place of worship.
Background: Mosque Sealed Following Murder Investigation
The South Goa administration took the decision to seal the Sunni Gulistan Masjid on January 31, in the aftermath of a daylight murder outside the mosque. The victim, Ali Khan, who served as the vice-president of the masjid, was killed in an incident that police have linked to a dispute between two rival groups. According to authorities, the conflict arose over donation money collected from marriages and other community events, leading to the tragic violence.
Postponed Meeting and Political Intervention
A scheduled meeting at the collector's office with representatives from the masjid, initially set for Monday, has been postponed to Tuesday. In the interim, Curtorim MLA Aleixo Reginaldo engaged with the community members gathered outside the mosque. He advised them against demanding an immediate reopening, urging patience and allowing the legal process to unfold. "He told them not to demand its reopening in a hurry and let law take its own course," highlighting the need for due process in the ongoing investigation.
The situation remains tense as the community awaits the outcome of the collector's decision, with the spiritual significance of Ramadan adding pressure to resolve the issue promptly. The authorities are balancing the demands for religious freedom with the necessities of a thorough criminal investigation.
