SHIMLA: A sizable group of demonstrators gathered outside a mosque in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, on Thursday, alleging that the structure was constructed unlawfully. The protesters included local residents, BJP supporters, and right-wing activists.
Carrying the national flag, the protesters marched in proximity to the mosque, with some calling for its removal.
“This mosque was erected without proper authorization. Every level of the mosque is in violation of the law. If we build anything without permits, it is promptly dismantled. Yet, after a decade, no action has been taken against this mosque. It must be torn down,” one protester told ANI.
The demonstrator also claimed that there had been recent attacks on “Hindu individuals” by some Muslim men and called for an investigation into the rising Muslim population in Himachal Pradesh.
State Minister Anirudh Singh echoed similar concerns, advocating for thorough checks on individuals migrating from other states to Himachal Pradesh.
“There should be no discrimination between Hindus and Muslims among those migrating from other states. The primary concern is ensuring security by verifying these individuals,” Singh said.
He also raised alarms about foreign nationals entering the state, calling for rigorous background checks to ensure regional safety.
“The Congress-led administration in Himachal Pradesh emphasizes lawful development. This issue transcends religious boundaries and pertains to legal versus illegal constructions,” he added.
The Sanjauli mosque has ignited a political controversy in Himachal Pradesh.
Rumit Singh Thakur, President of the Dev Bhumi Shatriya Sangathan, who had urged “Sanatanis” to converge in Shimla, reported widespread participation from across the state in demonstrating “Sanatan unity.”
On August 30, an attack on a businessman in the Malyana area intensified calls for the mosque’s demolition.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu stated that all state residents have equal rights and affirmed his respect for all religions.
“Peaceful protests are allowed, but any attempts to bypass the law will not be tolerated,” he remarked.
Anirudh Singh noted that the mosque was constructed on government land and that the legal dispute has been ongoing for 14 years.
Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh assured that there would be no leniency toward encroachers.
“Everyone is subject to the law, and any actions taken will adhere to legal standards, whether by municipal authorities or the police,” he stated.
With contributions from PTI, ANI
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