Uttar Pradesh Government Denies Permission for Centuries-Old Melas at Sahu Ghazi and Salar Masud Dargahs Amid Law and Order Concerns
In a move that has stirred considerable controversy and disappointment among local communities, the Uttar Pradesh government on Wednesday denied permission for the annual religious congregation traditionally held at the dargah of Hazrat Saiyyad Salar Sahu Ghazi in Satrikha village, located in the Barabanki district.
The decision marks the second such restriction within a short span, as the government had also earlier refused to allow a similar gathering—a traditional mela—at the grave of Salar Masud Ghazi, the son of Sahu Ghazi, in the Bahraich district.
These religious fairs or melas, which have been observed for generations, hold deep cultural and historical significance for many members of the local Muslim community, as well as for people who respect the syncretic traditions of the region.
However, the recent bans come amid heightened tensions and warnings from several Hindutva-aligned groups, who had announced their intent to stage protests against the events, claiming that such congregations celebrated figures they view as “invaders.”
Historical and Cultural Significance
The mela at Satrikha, organized annually by the Barabanki Dargah Committee, was scheduled to take place between May 14 and May 18. It is held in honor of Hazrat Saiyyad Salar Sahu Ghazi, a prominent commander in the army of Mahmud of Ghazni, a figure often associated with medieval invasions of northern India.
Despite his martial background, Sahu Ghazi is known in local folklore for his acts of charity, humility, and compassion, particularly during the final years of his life, which he spent in Satrikha village.
His grave has long served as a site of pilgrimage, drawing people from various religious backgrounds who come to pay respects and participate in the mela.
Similarly, the larger and month-long mela in Bahraich, honoring Salar Masud Ghazi, the son of Sahu Ghazi and a similarly venerated figure, was also denied permission by authorities.
That fair, traditionally held on his death anniversary, draws thousands of visitors annually and is an event of major social and religious importance in the region.
Opposition and Political Response
The cancellation of both events has been welcomed by certain right-wing groups, who argue that the individuals being venerated were historical figures associated with foreign invasions.
Speaking on behalf of the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP)—an ally of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)—party spokesperson Piyush Mishra stated:
“There is no place for invaders in modern India. These events glorify individuals who represent historical oppression. We are pleased that the government has responded positively to our concerns and taken necessary action.”
Such statements reflect the growing ideological battle over historical memory and religious identity in contemporary India, where public commemorations are increasingly scrutinized through political and communal lenses.
Local Voices Express Disappointment
In stark contrast, the decision has been met with deep regret and disappointment from local Muslim leaders and community members. Mohammad Wakaullah, the president of the Dargah Committee in Bahraich, voiced his dismay over what he sees as an erosion of tradition and inclusivity.
He emphasized that these melas are more than just religious observances—they are cultural festivals with a history stretching back nearly a thousand years.
“These are not just events of faith; they are symbols of our shared heritage. For centuries, people of all backgrounds have participated in these gatherings.
The government should have allowed the continuation of this age-old tradition,” said Wakaullah.
His remarks underline the broader concerns about religious freedom and the growing perception that minority customs are being systematically curtailed under the pretext of administrative control or public safety.
Official Justification: Land Dispute and Security Concerns
When questioned about the reason behind the abrupt cancellation of the Satrikha mela, Amar Chaurasiya, the officer in charge of the Satrikha police station, cited potential law-and-order concerns.
According to his report, a large portion of the land designated for the mela had been illegally occupied by anti-social elements, creating an uncertain and potentially volatile situation.
“Upon conducting a preliminary inquiry, we discovered that a significant stretch of land intended for the event was encroached upon.
Until these issues are resolved and a clear security plan is established, holding the event could pose serious risks. Therefore, the mela was cancelled to maintain public order and safety,” said Chaurasiya.
Authorities have not yet indicated whether future gatherings would be permitted once these issues are addressed or if a permanent ban is being considered.
Mixed Public Reaction and Rising Polarization
The dual cancellations have ignited heated discussions on social media and in civil society circles. While some users and political figures lauded the government’s stance as a necessary move to prevent communal discord, others viewed it as an example of selective suppression and a deepening divide between communities.
Critics argue that such steps threaten the pluralistic fabric of Indian society, where for centuries, different communities have coexisted and often celebrated shared customs and local saints, regardless of religious background.
The fear among many is that the increasing politicization of history will lead to the marginalization of minority traditions, especially those rooted in Sufi and folk Islam.
A Clash of Memory, Identity, and Politics
The Uttar Pradesh government’s decision to withhold permission for these two longstanding melas is emblematic of the larger debate taking place across India—a debate over who gets to define national identity, whose histories are celebrated, and how religion intersects with public life.
While officials maintain that the decision was based on law and order assessments, critics see it as part of a broader trend of majoritarian governance and cultural exclusion.
As tensions continue to simmer, the future of these historic melas remains uncertain, and with it, a part of India’s diverse cultural legacy hangs in the balance.
