Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – The ongoing controversy over alleged illegal construction at mosques in Himachal Pradesh has led to widespread demonstrations across five districts. On Saturday, Hindu organizations and local residents took to the streets in protest against the police’s handling of the situation and alleged illegal activities.
Protests Erupt Across Districts
The protests have spread across Shimla, Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Paonta Sahib in Sirmaur district, and Sundernagar in Mandi. Demonstrators are demanding police verification of individuals arriving from other states and increased scrutiny of their activities. In solidarity with the protests, markets throughout the state were shut for two hours, and a significant police presence was established outside mosques and in Muslim-majority areas to maintain order.
Key Locations of Protests:
- Shimla: In the Sunni market, protesters expressed their discontent by clapping loudly.
- Sirmaur: An anger rally was organized in Paonta Sahib.
- Bilaspur: Demonstrations took place in the Ghumarwin market.
- Hamirpur: Hindu organizations and local business associations staged a protest at the district headquarters.
Background of the Controversy
The dispute began on August 31 when a local resident in Malyana village was reportedly assaulted by members of the Muslim community. The alleged assailants sought refuge in the Sanjauli mosque in Shimla. On September 1, local residents protested outside the mosque, accusing it of having three floors of illegal construction. They claimed that the top floors were being used for unauthorized purposes.
Protesters’ Demands
Protesters have called for the demolition of the mosque, which they claim was built illegally. Demonstrations were held on September 5 in Sanjauli and Chotta Maidan, and similar protests occurred in Kasumpti, Shimla. The following Wednesday saw intensified protests in Sanjauli-Dhalli.
Police Response and Legal Proceedings
In response to the protests in Sanjauli-Dhalli, police conducted a lathi charge on the demonstrators. The matter is currently being addressed in the municipal commissioner’s court. The court has deemed three floors of the Sanjauli mosque as illegal. The Muslim community has expressed willingness to demolish these floors if ordered by the court, and in the meantime, the floors have been sealed.
Mandi Mosque Dispute
In Mandi, a mosque on Jail Road is facing similar controversy over illegal construction. Local residents have been protesting against the mosque, which has led to the issue being taken up by the municipal commissioner’s court. On September 13, the court declared two upper floors of the mosque illegal and granted 30 days for their demolition. The mosque’s boundary is also alleged to encroach on PWD land. In response to the growing dispute, the Muslim community has started demolishing the illegal portions themselves.
Additional Updates:
- Mandi Mosque Demolition Order: The municipal commissioner’s court in Mandi has ordered the demolition of two illegal floors of a mosque within 30 days. The mosque, which is 30 years old, is situated on Jail Road. The court found that two of its floors were constructed illegally.
- Shimla Mosque Committee Offer: The mosque committee in Shimla has proposed to demolish the illegal parts of the mosque if a court order is issued. They have approached Shimla Municipal Commissioner Bhupender Atri to discuss the matter further.