Shimla Sanjauli Mosque Dispute: After Protests by Hindu Groups, Muslim Side Says, 'We Will...

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh – Tensions flared in Sanjauli, Shimla, over the construction of an alleged illegal mosque, sparking protests led by various Hindu organizations. In response to the growing unrest, a Muslim cleric issued a statement expressing a willingness to remove the unauthorized portion of the mosque to maintain peace and harmony.

The cleric stated, "We have decided to remove the illegal portion of the mosque to preserve mutual love and unity. If we are granted permission, we are ready to take down the structure ourselves."

The Muslim community has also submitted a letter to the Commissioner, emphasizing that Himachal Pradesh has always been a place where people of all faiths live together in peace and harmony. The letter urged authorities to seal the portion of the mosque deemed illegal by the municipal corporation. The matter is currently in court, and the Muslim community has assured that they will respect the court's decision. They reiterated their readiness to remove the illegal section if permitted.

On Wednesday, protests escalated in Sanjauli, leading Shimla police to resort to a baton charge and use of water cannons to disperse the demonstrators. The police action has angered local business owners, who decided to shut down shops from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in protest.

Under the banner of the Shimla Trade Association, all shops in the city remained closed during the protest. Local merchants expressed their dissatisfaction with the police's handling of the situation, contributing to the growing unrest in the region. The situation remains tense, with both sides awaiting further developments in court.