A local BJP leader urged shopkeepers to remove Muslim salesmen from their stores. Media reports named Eklavya Singh Gaud, son of MLA Malini Gaud, as the speaker who addressed vendors in Shetlamata market and NaliyaBakhal.
Witnesses said he framed his appeal as a response to alleged incidents of “love jihad”. Shop owners described the meeting as tense. Several merchants said they felt pressured to dismiss staff without formal inquiry. Others refused to act without papers.
Civil rights groups criticised the call. They said the appeal targets a community and breaches employment law. Lawyers noted that Indian labour law and the Constitution prohibit discrimination in employment on religious grounds. They urged affected workers to file complaints with the labour department and local police.
Local residents organised a protest in support of Muslim salesmen. A group of Hindu neighbours accompanied them to the district magistrate’s office with documents proving lawful employment. The district administration acknowledged receipt of complaints and ordered an inquiry. Official sources said the police will record statements and examine relevant evidence.
Political leaders provided competing statements. Some defended the market meeting as political expression. Others warned against rhetoric that could inflame communal tensions. Market associations requested calm and asked for clear legal directives on employee rights.