Create Local Peace Committees to Prevent Communal Tension Before It Spreads

Most people want the same simple things from their neighbourhood.

1. They want their families to feel safe.

2. They want to celebrate their festivals peacefully.

3. They want to visit their places of worship without fear.

4. And they want to live beside people of different religions without unnecessary conflict.

But sometimes a small incident can quickly create tension.

A rumour may spread through WhatsApp or social media.

A disagreement during a festival or procession may become bigger than it needs to be.

An offensive message, damaged property or misunderstanding between a few people can create fear across an entire neighbourhood.

By the time the truth becomes clear, trust may already have been damaged.

This is why communities need ways to talk before problems become serious.

We are asking district administrations and local authorities across Maharashtra to strengthen community peace committees at the local level.

These committees should bring together respected residents, community representatives, women, young people, local officials and other people who can help resolve concerns calmly.

Residents should know whom they can contact when they hear a dangerous rumour or notice growing tension in their area.

Local authorities should also communicate quickly when false information is spreading so that people are not left depending on rumours.

Before major festivals, processions or large religious gatherings, community representatives and local authorities should meet in advance to discuss routes, timings, traffic, noise, safety and other concerns.

The purpose should not be to interfere with anyone's faith.

The purpose should be to make sure that everyone can practise their faith peacefully while respecting the safety and rights of neighbours.

Peace committees should also meet regularly instead of appearing only after trouble has already started.

Building relationships during normal times makes it easier for communities to speak to one another when a difficult situation arises.

This petition is not about one religion or one community.

It is about all of us.

A rumour should not be allowed to turn neighbours against each other.

A small dispute should not become a reason for families to feel unsafe in their own area.

Different faiths should be able to live side by side with dignity, respect and peace.

Please sign this petition and support stronger local peace committees and community cooperation across Maharashtra.