Muslim organization deplores mosque demolition

A London-based Organization of Indian Muslims Thursday condemned the demolition of a 16th century mosque at Asind town of Rajasthan in India and installation of an idol of Lord Hanuman there.

"We strongly condemn this naked display of fascism and religious intolerance and protest against the inaction of the law enforcement agencies in arresting the culprits," Indian Muslim Federation President Shamshuddin Agha was quoted by Indian news agency (PTI) as saying.

The Federation demanded rebuilding of the mosque and punishment to those involved in the incident to restore the confidence of the Muslim community, the statement said.

Trouble erupted in the town in Bhilwara district on July 27 when some people demolished the mosque, believed to have been built by a battalion of the Mughal Army, and installed an idol of Lord Hanuman in its place.

However, an agreement was reached later between the Muslims and the majority Gujjars to maintain the status quo at the structure.