The century-old shrine dedicated to Baba Bulle Shah, the renowned Punjabi mystic poet and social reformer, was vandalised by unidentified individuals in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, late on Saturday evening, according to officials and members of the shrine management. The incident has triggered concern due to the shrine’s historical and cultural significance. Authorities confirmed that the damage was deliberate and extensive. The act has raised questions about the motive behind targeting a site associated with spiritual teachings of unity and peace. Police have begun monitoring the area closely following the incident to prevent any further disturbance.
Officials said the attack was not limited to the main shrine, as two other nearby shrines were completely destroyed during the vandalism. In addition, the donation box kept at the site was broken, intensifying the seriousness of the episode. Shrine representatives described the destruction as systematic and intentional. Soon after the incident came to light, members of the Baba Bulle Shah Committee reached the location and voiced strong anger and distress over the damage. They claimed the act went beyond mere vandalism and appeared aimed at disturbing Mussoorie’s long-standing peaceful environment.
Rajat Agarwal, president of the Baba Bulle Shah Committee, stated that the incident should be seen as an attempt to disrupt communal harmony rather than simple damage to a religious structure. He stressed that Baba Bulle Shah symbolises unity, tolerance and brotherhood. Historically, the mystic poet was buried in Kasur, Pakistan, where his well-known shrine exists and attracts devotees from around the world. The Mussoorie shrine, followers say, reflects the same inclusive values and has always welcomed people from different faiths without discrimination or conflict.
The incident has also revived earlier controversies surrounding the shrine. In the past, some right-wing organisations had opposed its expansion, alleging it was illegally constructed on government land. The shrine committee has consistently denied these claims. Agarwal clarified that the shrine stands on land belonging to a private school, and permission for its establishment was granted by the school administration many years ago. He added that administrative inquiries conducted earlier had found no evidence of encroachment or illegal construction at the site.
Former Municipal Chairman Manmohan Singh described the vandalism as deeply unfortunate, stating that Mussoorie has historically represented brotherhood and communal harmony. He warned that such incidents tarnish the city’s image and urged authorities to identify and punish those responsible. Followers of Baba Bulle Shah expressed strong outrage, warning of protests if swift action is not taken. Meanwhile, SDM Mussoorie Rahul Anand said no formal complaint had yet been received, police personnel had been deployed, and legal action would follow once due process begins.