The famous Banke Bihari temple in Vrindavan has strongly opposed the call by certain right-wing groups to boycott Muslims who provide services to the temple. These groups, protesting against the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, had urged Hindu shopkeepers and pilgrims to stop doing business with the Muslim community.

However, the temple’s administration disagreed with this. Gyanendra Kishore Goswami, a priest and member of the temple's administration committee, told The Times of India (TOI) on Monday, "It is not practical. Muslims, particularly artisans and weavers, have deep-rooted contributions here. They've played a major role in weaving the dresses of Banke Bihari for decades. Many of them have a strong belief in Banke Bihari and visit the temple too."

He also added, "In Vrindavan, some of the intricate crowns and bangles for the deity are made by them (Muslims). Yes, those terrorists (in Pahalgam) should be punished severely, and we're totally with the govt. But in Vrindavan, Hindus and Muslims live together in peace and harmony."

Most of the temple priests and locals agreed with Goswami's statement and praised the support shown by the temple authorities.

Javed Ali, who owns a shop named ‘Star Mukut’ near the temple, shared his experience. He said, "They (the protesters) came to my shop and asked us to put the name of the proprietor on the signboard. I've been running this shop for over 20 years. My father worked here as a tailor. Whenever a customer buys things, I usually give them a bill receipt with my name and mobile number on it. We have nothing to hide. With the blessings of Banke Bihari, this place is always peaceful."

Nikhil Aggarwal, who owns a shop next to Javed’s, said they have never had any problems and always support each other.

Read: Pahalgam terror attack: Tourists trapped as both gates blocked by terrorists