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In Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, tensions have escalated over the construction of a mosque in the Sanjauli area. For the past five days, local residents have been protesting, demanding the demolition of what they claim is an illegal mosque. On September 5, demonstrators, including various organizations, took to the streets, giving a two-day ultimatum for the mosque’s removal.
Panchayati Raj Minister Aniruddh Singh visited the protest site, and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that legal action would be taken against anyone violating the law. AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi criticized the Congress government, accusing Minister Singh of echoing BJP rhetoric.
Conflict Intensifies After Assault Incident
The controversy intensified after a local resident was allegedly assaulted by members of a specific community near the mosque on the evening of August 31. Following the incident, police arrested six suspects. The assault led to increased demands from Hindu organizations and locals for the mosque’s demolition.
Allegations of Unauthorized Construction
Locals allege that a five-story mosque was constructed in Sanjauli’s upscale area without proper permits or approved plans. They claim the area, once home to a small two-story mosque, now sees large crowds of Muslims for prayers, disrupting daily life. Residents have also accused newcomers of spying on their homes.
The mosque’s imam, Shahzad, defended the construction, stating that the mosque, originally built in 1947, had been expanded to accommodate growing numbers of worshippers. The Waqf Board, which manages the mosque’s land, is currently fighting a legal battle over the additional floors.
Government and Legal Responses
According to the state government, while the mosque itself is old, the unauthorized construction began in 2010. Despite numerous notices and legal actions, construction continued, leading to 44 court hearings. The next hearing is scheduled for September 7. Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh has stated that if the court deems the mosque illegal, action will be taken according to the law.
Protests have spread beyond Sanjauli, with demonstrations occurring in Shimla’s Kusumpati area on the same day. The issue has sparked debate within the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, with Congress members clashing over the mosque’s status and construction.
The situation remains tense as the community and government await further legal and political developments.
