Tando Jam, District Hyderabad, Sindh — In a deeply concerning development, the sacred land surrounding the over 100-year-old Shiv Mandir (Shivala) in Musa Khatian, near Tando Jam, has reportedly been illegally occupied by an influential builder mafia. Construction activities have already begun, and the entrances to the historic temple have been blocked, sparking fear and anger among the local Hindu community.
A Sacred Site Under Threat
Shiv Mandir Shivala has been a place of worship and spiritual significance for over a century, serving as a cornerstone of the Hindu community’s heritage in Sindh. The illegal occupation and blockade of this religious site represent a grave violation of religious freedom and property rights.
The temple is surrounded by six acres of land, which has traditionally been associated with the temple’s upkeep, rituals, and festivals. The recent unlawful construction not only threatens this heritage but also reflects a broader pattern of encroachment on minority religious sites in the region.
Community Protest and Media Coverage
This alarming situation has led to widespread protests by the Hindu minority community. Demonstrations have been reported in local newspapers, where protestors voiced their frustration and fear of losing yet another spiritual and cultural landmark. The accused parties reportedly belong to influential individuals from the Khaskheli community, allegedly using their power and resources to carry out the illegal construction without facing legal consequences.
Call for Immediate Action
The community is now urgently appealing to the Inspector General of Sindh Police (IG Sindh), DIG Hyderabad, SSP Hyderabad, and all relevant authorities to:
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Remove the illegal occupation from the Shiv Mandir land immediately.
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File criminal cases against those responsible.
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Ensure arrests and proper legal action to prevent further desecration of this sacred site.
Failure to act not only undermines the rule of law but also sends a dangerous message to minorities in Pakistan—that their heritage and places of worship are not protected.
A Test of Justice and Coexistence
This case is not just about land—it’s about respecting minority rights, protecting religious heritage, and upholding the principles of justice and equality. The ongoing encroachment is a violation not only of constitutional rights but of Pakistan’s commitments to religious freedom under international human rights law.
Conclusion
The illegal occupation of the historic Shiv Mandir land in Tando Jam is a test of the government’s will to protect its minority citizens. The Hindu community’s peaceful plea for justice must not go unheard. Authorities must act swiftly to restore faith in the system and safeguard the legacy of this sacred space for generations to come.
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