Meerut Widow Faces Backlash for Allowing Prayers in Empty Home
Reshma Khan, a widow from Meerut, finds herself under pressure after giving consent for prayers to be held in her vacant house. The incident occurred in Bareilly's Mohammadganj village, where police recently took preventive action against twelve individuals.
Police Action Under BNS Section 170
Authorities acted under section 170 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). They targeted people who offered prayers on the rooftop of the empty residence. Reshma Khan explained her decision clearly. She stated that the house was lying vacant and there was no other place available for worship.
"People usually offer namaz in other vacant houses of families who have moved away," she said. "Now, I am being pressured not to allow prayers at home." Her words highlight a common practice in the area that has now sparked controversy.
Historical Context of the Dispute
This controversy is not a new development. It dates back nearly three decades to March 1995. Villagers approached the Bareilly Superintendent of Police at that time. They alleged that members of the minority community were attempting to offer prayers on gram sabha land.
A copy of that old complaint remains with TOI. Village elders claim the dispute was resolved through consensus. They agreed that neither a temple nor a mosque would be constructed in the village in the future. This historical agreement now faces new challenges.
Recent Events and Police Response
On January 16, 2026, a group from the minority community gathered again. They aimed to offer prayers at the vacant place. Someone recorded a video of the Friday prayers and shared it with local authorities.
The video came with a complaint alleging that the house was being converted into a madrassa. This prompted immediate police action. Bareilly police stated they received the complaint during Tehsil Diwas. They took preventive measures to maintain law and order in the area.
ASP Anshika Verma provided further details. "They were trying to convert the house into a madrassa without permission," she said. "Other communities raised an alert, which is why they were brought to the police station and challaned." Her statement clarifies the official perspective on the incident.
Community Reactions and Ongoing Tensions
The situation reveals deep-seated tensions within the community. Reshma Khan's experience shows how individual decisions can trigger broader conflicts. Local residents continue to debate the use of vacant properties for religious purposes.
Police maintain their stance on enforcing regulations. They emphasize the need for proper permissions before any property conversion. The case remains active as authorities monitor the situation closely.
