Shimla Mosque Controversy: Muslim Community proposes sealing of allegedly illegal part

Himachalscape bureau Published: September 12, 2024 | Updated: September 12, 2024 2 minutes read

Old photo of the Sanjauli protest. Used for indicative purpose only.

Shimla, Sept 12,

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In a bid to restore peace and maintain law and order in Shimla, the Muslim community has proposed sealing the allegedly illegal constructed part of the mosque until the legal dispute is resolved.

In a memorandum submitted to the Municipal Corporation (MC) Shimla, the Mosque Committee urged the authorities to take the decision until a court decision is reached.

Also read: Shimla Mosque controversy- A Political consequence of ignoring illegalities?

The Muslim community led by Mohd Lateef and others emphasized that Shimla and Himachal Pradesh have always been known for their religious tolerance and brotherhood. They expressed hope that this proposal would help resolve the issue amicably.

Also read: Police use light cane charge on Protesters in Sanjauli; no. of students struck in schools

Meanwhile, the Devbhoomi Sangarsh Samiti, which had organized a protest in Sanjauli on September 11, strongly criticized the city administration’s handling of the situation. They termed the administration’s approach as “Maulana-like” and accused them of mishandling a peaceful protest in a media meet here today.

The Samiti clarified that their protest is not communal or political in nature. They emphasized that their concern was about individuals who disturb the peace of the state, regardless of their community.

Also read: Shimla Scuffle and mosque controversy: Admn faces pressure to address Communal crisis

The protest was sparked by a recent incident involving a brawl between a few individuals who were allegedly given shelter in the mosque. The Samiti demanded that local residents verify the credentials of those renting properties in their area. They expressed concerns about attempts to change the city’s demographics in a planned manner.

In response to the Muslim community’s proposal, the Devbhoomi Sangarsh Samiti welcomed their call for sealing the alleged pat of the mosque until the legal matter is resolved.

Also read:Vol 8 Issue 6

The ongoing controversy has led to widespread protests in Shimla. Today on the call of the Shimla businessmen association a half-day bandh was organized. The procession was claimed to be in solidarity with the Sanjauli shopkeepers and to protest the administration’s use of force.

Noteworthy that in an aggressive protest held on Wednesday, the police used mild cane charge to disburse the raging crowd. In the incidents a few people from general public as well as police personal were injured.

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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