**Sitlamata Bazar in Indore Becomes Political Battleground Following Controversy Over Muslim Employees’ Dismissal**
BHOPAL: The century-old Sitlamata Bazar in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, has turned into a political battleground after 40-50 Muslim employees were reportedly sacked from various shops over allegations of involvement in so-called “Love Jihad.” The dismissed Muslim men, who worked primarily in retail cloth shops, along with the opposition Congress party, have accused Indore-IV BJP MLA Malini Gaur’s son, Eklavya Gaur, of orchestrating the dismissals. Eklavya Gaur is known to head a right-wing Hindu organization called Hind Rakshak.
Former MP Chief Minister and Congress Rajya Sabha member Digvijaya Singh took an active interest in the issue. He met with the affected Muslim employees to hear their grievances firsthand. However, when Singh attempted to visit Sitlamata Bazar to show solidarity, the police prevented him from entering the market.
In anticipation of Singh’s proposed visit, traders in the bazaar displayed posters and banners that read, “Entry of Jihadi mentality people banned in the market,” accompanied by saffron flags. Additionally, BJP Mahila Morcha activists, led by local municipal corporator Mita Rathore, awaited Singh at the market entrance, greeting him with bangles.
After meeting the affected employees, Digvijaya Singh proceeded to the Sarafa police station where he submitted a memorandum and complaint copies. The documents called for swift action against Eklavya Gaur in connection with the dismissal of Muslim workers. The controversy continues to stir political tensions in the region.
https://www.newindianexpress.com/thesundaystandard/2025/Sep/28/50-muslims-lose-jobs-in-indore-over-love-jihad-congress-leader-digvijaya-singh-prevented-from-visiting-bazar
