Controversy Erupts Over 'Halal Lifestyle' Township Near Mumbai
A real estate project in Karjat, promoting a ‘Halal lifestyle’ township, has sparked a major controversy, drawing sharp reactions from political leaders and activists. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has issued a notice to the Maharashtra government for an investigation.
Halal LifestyleReal EstateKarjatNhrcMaharashtraReal Estate MumbaiSep 05, 2025
After its promotional video went viral on social media, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken note and issued a notice to the Maharashtra government, seeking an investigation and a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR). The video, which features a woman in a hijab, talks about raising children in a Halal environment and living among ‘like-minded families.’ It quickly went viral, with public opinion sharply divided.
While some people expressed concern about promoting religious segregation, others pointed out that such initiatives emerge due to housing discrimination faced by Muslims in many parts of India. The controversy escalated when NHRC member and BJP leader Priyank Kanoongo shared the project’s advertisement on social media, calling it divisive. In his post, he referred to the township as creating a ‘Nation within the Nation’ and described the video as ‘poison’ rather than mere advertisement.
Amid the growing uproar, BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar wrote a letter to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, demanding strict legal action against the builders and an immediate ban on advertisements that promote religious exclusivity. Bhatkhalkar stated that the promotion of such townships violates the Indian Constitution and threatens social harmony. He alleged that the project was an example of ‘land jihad’ and said it was ‘extremely harmful to the peace, law, and order of the state.’ In his letter, he urged the government to form guidelines to prevent advertisements that may create divisions in society.
Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) spokesperson Krishna Hegde also criticized the project, demanding the removal of the advertisement and a detailed inquiry into its intent and legality. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) also raised concerns, further fueling the debate. While many critics accused the project of fostering communal segregation, supporters argued that the Muslim community often faces systemic discrimination in mainstream housing markets, leading to the need for such self-contained communities.
The Maharashtra government is expected to submit its report to the NHRC within two weeks. The controversy highlights the ongoing tensions and debates surrounding religious and community-based housing projects in India, where issues of discrimination and social harmony are deeply intertwined.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sukoon Empire project?
Sukoon Empire is a real estate project located in Karjat, about 100 kilometers from Mumbai. It promotes a ‘Halal lifestyle’ and is marketed as a space tailored for Muslim families, featuring facilities like prayer areas and communal spaces.
Why did the project spark controversy?
The project sparked controversy due to its promotional video, which went viral on social media. Critics argue that it promotes religious segregation, while supporters point to housing discrimination faced by Muslims in mainstream housing markets.
What action did the NHRC take?
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) issued a notice to the Maharashtra government, seeking an investigation and a detailed Action Taken Report (ATR) regarding the Sukoon Empire project.
What are the main concerns raised by political leaders?
Political leaders, including BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar and Shiv Sena spokesperson Krishna Hegde, have raised concerns about the project promoting religious exclusivity and violating the Indian Constitution. They have called for strict legal action and guidelines to prevent such advertisements.
What is the stance of the supporters of the project?
Supporters of the project argue that it is necessary due to the systemic housing discrimination faced by the Muslim community in many parts of India, making such self-contained communities essential for safety and cultural preservation.
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