SHIMLA: Tensions flared in Sanjauli, a suburb of Shimla, as protests erupted over the alleged illegal construction of a mosque.
Hindu groups, claiming the structure violated local regulations, led demonstrations that turned violent when they clashed with police.
The protestors, chanting slogans and waving the Indian flag, managed to break through police barricades, prompting the police to use water cannons and resort to lathi charges to disperse the crowd.
Some protestors retaliated by pelting stones at the police.
Demonstrators clashed with police, leading to several injuries due to lathi charges and water cannons.
The protestors reached Sanjauli after breaking the police barricades at Nav Bahar.
Many injured protesters were rused to IGMC, Shimla for treatment.
The public expressed disappointment with the government's response, criticizing the Congress government for its handling of the situation.
Local leaders and protestors condemned the police action, calling it unacceptable.
The issue has ignited political controversy in Himachal Pradesh. The ruling Congress party accused the BJP of attempting to polarize the situation for political gain, stating that the matter is strictly about law and order, not a religious conflict.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's government assured the public that the legality of the mosque’s construction would be investigated and action would be taken if it is indeed found to be unauthorized.
Meanwhile, opposition leader Jairam Thakur criticized the government for its delayed response to the mosque's construction, further fueling the political debate around the issue.
As the situation in Sanjauli remains tense, the government has imposed Section 163 in the area to maintain law and order, while the decision regarding the mosque’s future awaits a legal ruling.
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