Controversy erupts over Muslim reception at Shimla Ram Temple hall, committee reassures compliance

A booking for a Muslim family’s wedding reception at the community hall of the historic Ram Temple in Shimla has triggered a heated dispute in the city, with Hindu organisations opposing the event and threatening protests and symbolic actions . The controversy erupted after word spread that a nikah (Islamic wedding ceremony) of a Muslim girl was scheduled for April 11 at the temple hall, drawing sharp objections from groups such as the Hindu Sangharsh Samiti , which have demanded the booking be cancelled.

Rajeev Sood, president of the Ram Temple Sood Sabha , reiterated on Tuesday that the booking is only for a social reception in the temple’s community hall, not for any religious rites such as namaz or nikah , and that the actual marriage was already performed elsewhere. Organisers have given a written undertaking that no religious activities will occur on the premises, and the temple committee emphasised that the hall’s use for secular events is longstanding and open to all communities .

Sood also said the committee respects the sentiments of all faiths and noted that similar receptions involving Muslim and other community families have been held there in the past without incident. To ensure compliance with rules, the committee plans to increase CCTV surveillance and station staff , and warned that power may be cut and police informed if any violation occurs.

Opposition groups have responded strongly. Members of the Hindu Sangharsh Samiti and allied organisations have warned of protests and symbolic actions such as ritual head‑shaving and a “procession of pigs” should a nikah be conducted anywhere on temple grounds, saying they believe such use of a temple venue is inappropriate and offends religious sentiments.

The stand‑off has stirred social and political debate in the city, with authorities monitoring the situation closely ahead of the scheduled reception. The father of the bride has appealed for calm, describing the planned event as a family celebration. While the temple committee maintains its decision is within constitutional and internal rules, opponents insist the booking should be revoked to avoid hurting community sentiments.