Shahabuddin's Letter to Karnataka CM, 9 Dec., 99

You must be aware of the persistent threat of the Sangh Parivar to convert the Dargah of Baba Budhan Giri in Chikmagalur into a temple.

After the burial of the late Saijadanashin Pir S.M. Shah Qadri Qalander on 25.10.1999 on the precincts of the Dargah, the Sangh Parivar is demanding exhumation of his body and the non-recognition of his successor.

However, the bandh called by them was a flop and the Hindus of Chikmagalur, in general, kept aloof. They again tried to create trouble on the 40th day of the Pir's demise. I am writing this to request you to deal firmly with this group which is determined to enaet another Babari Masjid.

The Dargah is a Muslim shrine which has been open to devotees from all religions but simply because Hindu devotees have been permitted for ages, it cannot become a Hindu shrine. Since a Dargah is a Wakf by definition, I also strongly urge you to hand over its control and superintendence to the State Wakf Board.