Shimla: A massive protest erupted in the Sanjauli suburb of Shimla as Hindu activists and other local organizations demonstrated against what they termed as an "illegal mosque" that has come up in this suburb in this capital city.
Amid tight heavy police presence led by DC Shimla Anupam Kashyap and SP Shimla Sanjeev Gandhi, protesters, including women carrying flags and chanting slogans, demanded the mosque’s immediate demolition, accusing the government of inaction.
Traffic on the Sanjauli-Shimla road came to a standstill as the protest intensified, sparking communal tension in the city.
The activists criticized the authorities, warning that failure to act could escalate the situation further.
The protestors marched from near Gurudwara in Sanjauli and headed towards to the newly built mosque in the Sanjauli area.
During the Vidhan Sabha session, PWD and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh responded to concerns raised by BJP MLA Balbir Verma and Congress MLA Harish Janartha.
Singh explained that the controversy dates back to 2010, when unauthorized reconstruction of the mosque was identified. Despite legal hearings, further illegal floors were added before 2018.
Singh emphasized that the government is committed to upholding the law while ensuring peace.
Singh assured that Himachal Pradesh’s glorious history and values of justice will be maintained, stating, “The law will take its course. We have taken actions under Sections 252 and 253 of the Municipal Corporation Act, 1994.”
He added that the Wakf Board had issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) in 2012 for the mosque’s reconstruction, but violations occurred in the approved plans.
The PWD minister reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring fair resolution while respecting religious sentiments.
He also highlighted the Congress Party's previous enactment of the anti-conversion law, underscoring the importance of adhering to legal frameworks in such matters.
The minister urged members of the house not to politicize the issue, stressing the need for maintaining dignity and ensuring that actions are taken in the best interest of the state.
PWD Minister Vikramaditya Singh and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh visited the mosque site later in the evening.
Addressing the ongoing controversy, Vikramaditya Singh stated, *“This
is an issue related to the mosque, and there seems to be some alteration in the building structure. If any illegalities have come to light, the government is fully aware and vigilant.”*
Singh further added, *“I have said this before, and I repeat, action will be taken against those responsible.
The matter is currently pending with the MC Commissioner, and we are working to expedite the process. Once the findings are clear, the law will take its course accordingly.”, he said.
