Halal Township in Karjat Sparks Big Debate
Sukoon Empire near Mumbai, promoted as a “Halal lifestyle township,” has triggered a national debate on religion-based housing. Supporters call it a safe space, while critics say it violates India’s s
Sukoon Empire in Karjat Sparks National Debate Over Religion-Based Housing
A new housing project near Mumbai, called Sukoon Empire, is making headlines. Located in Karjat district, about 100 km from Mumbai, it is being promoted as a “Halal lifestyle township” designed especially for Muslim families.
The controversy started after an advertisement video went viral. It showed a woman in hijab saying the township would provide a Halal environment to raise children and allow families to live among “like-minded” Muslim residents. The project also highlighted facilities such as prayer rooms and separate areas for men and women.
Supporters argue that such housing offers a safe space for Muslims, who often face rejection when trying to buy or rent homes in regular societies. They point out that vegetarian-only buildings, women-only hostels, and senior citizen complexes already exist, and ask why outrage arises only when it is for Muslims.
However, critics believe this goes against India’s Constitution, which guarantees equality and prohibits discrimination on religious grounds. Political leaders, civil rights groups, and even Muslim clerics have spoken against the project. BJP leaders Priyank Kanoongo, Atul Bhatkhalkar, and Ajit Chavan called it divisive, while Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule demanded its signboards be removed. Shiv Sena’s Krishna Hegde asked for an investigation, and Maulana Shahabuddin Razvi warned it could cause more hate than peace.
Similar religion-based housing ads have already faced action from the Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation.
The debate continues: Should religion-based housing be allowed in a secular country like India?
