Delhi: Temple prohibits Muslim-man from performing Hindu-wife's last rites
What's the story
A Muslim man was not allowed to perform last rites of his dead Hindu woman at a temple in Delhi's CR Park for 'obvious reasons'. Imtiazur Rahman's wife Nivedita Ghatak died in the National Capital, a few days ago, after multiple organs failure. They had been married for 20 years. After cremating Ghatak, Rahman wanted to perform 'shradh' (a Hindu ritual), but couldn't.
Details
Temple authorities said Ghatak no longer Hindu after marrying Muslim
Rahman, who hails from West Bengal and works as Assistant Commissioner, commercial tax, had booked August 12 at the famous Kalin Temple for the shradh. He paid Rs. 1,300 on August 6. But later he was told that his booking was canceled. Temple authorities cited 'obvious reasons', and said his wife was no longer a Hindu after marrying a Muslim.
Their side
Authorities claimed Rahman concealed his identity to get slot
Further, president of the temple society, Ashitava Bhowmik, said there were more than one reasons to cancel the slot. Bhowmik said Rahman made the booking in his daughter Ihini Ambreen's name and concealed his religious identity. Rahman was also advised to get the ceremony done in Kolkata. Notably, Rahman said his wife practised Hinduism, even after their marriage that happened under Special Marriages Act.
Concerns?
"What if he brings people and offers namaz inside temple?"
Bhowmik said Rahman's identity was revealed after he couldn't tell his 'gotra'. When Bhowmik was told it was Ghatak's last wish, he asked, "Who knows the man has some ulterior motive and could bring in 50-100 of his relatives inside the temple and start praying Namaz." He added the decision was taken to respect Hindu traditions. The shradh hasn't been done till now.