Mosque row: Muslim committee agrees to demolish illegal mosque structure amid ongoing protests in Shimla

PTC News Desk: In a gesture of peace, the Masjid Committee in Sanjauli, embroiled in a controversy over alleged illegal construction, has offered to demolish the disputed portion of the mosque. This offer came after growing protests by Hindu organisations, who have been demanding the removal of the structure. In a memorandum submitted to the Shimla Municipal Corporation Commissioner, the representatives stated that they are prepared to dismantle the illegal portion if given permission.

On September 11, Hindu organisations called for a protest in Shimla, voicing their opposition to the mosque’s construction. In response, a heavy police presence was deployed around the mosque and across the Sanjauli area. Authorities also employed surveillance measures, including drone monitoring, and restricted movement near the Dhalli Tunnel to ensure public safety.

To maintain order, District Commissioner (DC) Anupam Kashyap imposed Section 163 of the Himachal Pradesh Police Act, which prohibits the gathering of five or more people and the carrying of weapons from 7 am to 11:59 pm on the day of the protest.

A police flag march was also conducted in Sanjauli the night before the protests. DC Kashyap assured the public that daily life would continue as usual, with government offices, schools, and markets remaining open. He emphasised that no protests would be allowed, and the use of loudspeakers was strictly prohibited.

The mosque at the heart of the controversy has a long history, reportedly dating back to before 1947 as a temporary structure. In 2010, construction began on a permanent building, leading to complaints from local residents about illegal construction. The matter has been under litigation in the Municipal Corporation’s court, with 35 orders issued to halt the construction. Despite this, a five-story structure was completed by 2024.

In 2023, the Municipal Corporation demolished the mosque’s toilets, escalating tensions. Hindu organisations were particularly angered by an alleged assault incident, leading them to stage protests in Sanjauli on September 1 and Chaura Maidan on September 5.

The 45th hearing on the case was held in the Municipal Commissioner’s court on September 7, where the Waqf Board submitted ownership documents to assert its claim over the mosque. The court scheduled the next hearing for October 5, instructing the Junior Engineer to submit a fresh status report on the disputed construction.

Imam Shahzad, representing the mosque, defended the construction, stating that the mosque had existed before 1947 as a temporary two-story building. He explained that donations were collected to construct the mosque, which stands on land owned by the Waqf Board. He assured that the court’s decision will be respected by all parties involved.

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In light of the escalating tensions, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu affirmed that law and order would be strictly maintained. He stated that while peaceful protests are allowed, no one will be permitted to take the law into their own hands. The Chief Minister added that the administration is closely monitoring the situation and that any action regarding the mosque will be taken in accordance with the law.

The ongoing controversy has been simmering for years, with Hindu organizations accusing the mosque management of violating construction norms, while the Waqf Board maintains that the structure stands on legally owned land. The upcoming court hearing on October 5 is expected to play a critical role in determining the future of the mosque.

As the situation remains tense, the authorities are continuing to enforce strict measures to prevent any outbreak of violence or public disorder. All eyes are now on the next court date, which may finally provide some resolution to this long-standing dispute.

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