An 18th-century dargah dedicated to the Sufi poet and thinker Baba Bulleh Shah was allegedly vandalized in Masuri of Utrakhand on Saturday evening, January 24, by a group reportedly linked to the Hindu Raksha Dal, triggering tension in the local social and communal atmosphere.

The incident took place in the Bala Hisar area of Mussoorie, where approximately 25–30 individuals used hammers and iron rods to damage the structure of the dargah. Police reports indicate that religious texts were also destroyed during the attack.

Authorities have filed an FIR against 25–30 unidentified individuals, including three named suspects – Hariom, Shivayun, and Shraddha. The complaint cites disruption of communal harmony, public disorder, and desecration of a place of worship under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.

Police confirmed that no arrests have been made so far and that investigations are ongoing. They assured that strict action would be taken against the perpetrators.

Rajat Agrawal, president of the Baba Bulleh Shah Committee, said, “This attack is not merely about damaging a religious site; it is an attempt to disturb the peaceful social environment of Mussoorie.” He added that the dargah, established on private land, has long been a venue for religious and cultural events.

Local residents alleged that the attackers also committed offensive acts on the walls of the dargah, deeply hurting the sentiments of the community.

Several social and political figures have condemned the act as harmful to communal harmony. Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti called for swift action by the administration.

Baba Bulleh Shah (1680–1757), a renowned Sufi poet, humanist, and philosopher from Punjab, is celebrated for his poetry promoting love, tolerance, and equality. He spoke out against religious orthodoxy and social rigidity. While his mausoleum is in Kasur, Pakistan, his teachings continue to be revered by millions across India and Pakistan.