The Karnataka High Court has granted permission for Hindu devotees to perform puja to the Shivalinga located within the premises of the Ladle Mashak Dargah in Aland during Mahashivratri. The decision upholds an earlier directive by the Karnataka Waqf Tribunal, which established a structured schedule to facilitate religious observances at the site, known for its historical significance to both Hindu and Muslim communities.
As per the High Court’s directive, Hindu devotees will be allowed to perform puja to the Shivalinga between 2 pm and 6 pm on Mahashivratri, while Muslim community members can conduct Urs-related rituals between 8 am and 12 pm, as per the report on PTI. The court has emphasized strict adherence to these designated time slots to maintain communal harmony. Additionally, authorities have been instructed to ensure that no unauthorised modifications are made to the site during the observances.
The Ladle Mashak Dargah, associated with a 14th-century Sufi saint, also houses the Raghava Chaitanya Shivalinga, linked to a 15th-century Hindu saint. Historically, the site has symbolized communal harmony, with both religious groups sharing the space for worship. However, disputes over religious rights led to tensions in 2022, resulting in communal unrest.
To prevent any potential disturbances, the district administration has enforced Section 144 of the CrPC in Aland, prohibiting large public gatherings. The police have heightened security deploying police personnel at 12 checkpoints and using drones for surveillance. Superintendent of Police Isha Pant stated that while there was no official mandate for businesses to close, several shopkeepers voluntarily shut down as a precautionary measure, reported the agency.
Deputy Commissioner Yeshwanth Gurukar and senior law enforcement officials have been assigned the responsibility of overseeing the execution of the court’s order while ensuring peace in the town.
The police have also beefed up the security in the areas surrounding the dargah.
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