I write this petition with a heavy heart and a sense of loss for a cherished place of worship, a symbol of our faith, a beacon of peace and serenity which was unjustly razed. A 30-year-old Jain Temple in Vileparle, locally known as a "derasar," was targeted for demolition, an act orchestrated by the owner of RK hotel with the help of local politicians and the BMC. Our (Jain) community that once gathered to pray and find solace within this sacred space is left devastated. If this unjust act is not addressed, we fear that more derasars, Mandirs, and other Hindu religious places will fall victim to similar acts of desecration.

This incident not only destabilizes our community, but it also demonstrates a significant disregard for religious rights and freedoms in our society. According to the Pew Research Center, India is amongst the top 25 countries where religious freedom is under threat. This incident in Vileparle is one more grim testament to this reality.

In the interest of religious freedom and the preservation of our cultural heritage, we call upon the local government and the BMC to investigate the actions of the RK hotel and hold those responsible accountable. We demand that our sacred spaces be respected and protected and seek to ensure that such wrenching acts of destruction are not repeated in the future and the current destructed temple be rebuild with utmost respect in the aame condition that it was.. Stand with us, sign this petition, and raise your voice against the destruction of our Holy Temples.