Muslim Man in Kalyan Alleges Housing Discrimination After Being Denied Flat Due to Religion, Approaches Police
A case of alleged religious discrimination has emerged in Kalyan, India, involving a Muslim man who claims he was denied housing based on his faith. Ashfaq Fazal Karim Sheikh approached senior police officials after a property dealer reportedly refused to sell him a flat upon learning he was Muslim. Sheikh alleged the dealer made discriminatory and insulting remarks during their conversation.
According to the complaint filed at Bazarpeth Police Station, Sheikh contacted a phone number linked to a housing project to inquire about purchasing a flat. He claimed he directly asked whether Muslims were allowed to buy flats in the project, and the person on the call reportedly replied that flats would not be given to Muslims. Sheikh stated in his written complaint that this attitude violates constitutional principles of equality and dignity.
The complainant said he possesses an audio recording of the conversation containing the alleged discriminatory remarks. He further alleged that when he went to the local police station to file a complaint, officers showed little interest in registering the case. After the alleged delay, the matter was escalated to senior police officers.
In his complaint, Sheikh demanded immediate registration of an FIR against the person linked to the mobile number involved. He urged authorities to take strict legal action against anyone promoting religious hatred or discrimination. The complainant further appealed to the administration to ensure such incidents do not happen again and that communal harmony in the city is protected.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns raised by many Muslims in different Indian cities about difficulties in renting or buying homes because of their religious identity. Housing discrimination has frequently been discussed by activists and civil rights groups, who say many Muslim families face hidden barriers in urban housing markets. A social activist from Maharashtra said refusing someone housing because of religion goes against the idea of equal citizenship and creates insecurity among minorities.
At the time of reporting, there was no public response from the property dealer regarding the allegations. Police officials have also not yet confirmed whether an FIR has been formally registered in the matter.