Shimla: Sanjauli Mosque Dispute.
A controversy has erupted over an illegal mosque in Sanjauli, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Hindu organizations have protested against the illegal construction of the mosque, prompting a statement from the local Muslim cleric. He stated that to maintain harmony and peace in the community, they have decided to remove the illegal portion of the mosque themselves, provided they receive the necessary permission.
History of the Mosque and the Root of the Dispute.
The mosque in Sanjauli has existed since before 1947, but its permanent structure was built in 2010. Complaints were lodged with the municipal corporation soon after. Currently, the mosque has five stories, and the municipal corporation has issued 35 notices to demolish the illegal construction. The mosque land belongs to the Waqf Board, but the matter of two floors of the mosque is still pending in court.
Violence and Protests.
The dispute turned violent on August 31 when a clash broke out between two groups. Six Muslim youths allegedly attacked a local businessman named Yashpal. Following this incident, Hindu organizations took to the streets for more than five hours, during which there were confrontations with the police. To control the situation, the police used water cannons and baton charges, injuring around ten people, including police officers and women.
Proposal from the Muslim Community.
In response to the escalating situation, the Muslim community issued a letter stating that people of all religions have always lived in peace and harmony in Himachal Pradesh. To maintain this harmony, they requested that the illegal portion of the mosque be sealed by the municipal corporation. The community also expressed their willingness to remove the illegal part of the mosque themselves, provided the court grants permission.
Representatives of the Muslim Welfare Committee met with the Shimla Municipal Commissioner and asked that the illegal structure be sealed, emphasizing that the matter should not be politicized. According to them, both mosques and temples promote love and peace, and should not be used to create divisions in society.