A day after massive protests erupted in Shimla over demands to demolish “unauthorized structures” of a mosque in the Sanjauli area, two state Cabinet ministers announced that mosque authorities have agreed to seal the “illegal portions” of the building to maintain communal harmony.
In a joint press briefing, Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh and Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh stated that Sanjauli Mosque Committee President Mohammed Latif and Waqf Board member Maulvi Shezaad have voluntarily handed over a letter to the Shimla Municipal Commissioner. The letter expressed their agreement to seal the illegally expanded sections of the mosque.
“To maintain communal harmony and internal security, the mosque authorities have taken a responsible step. If the Municipal Corporation permits, they are also willing to demolish the unauthorized structure and abide by the court’s directions in the public interest,” the ministers said.
The protest led to the closure of all business establishments in Shimla till 1 p.m. on Thursday. Protesters carried the Tricolour and raised slogans such as “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Hindu Ekta Zindabad,” demanding action against the illegal construction. Police had to use mild force, including water cannons and baton charges, to disperse the crowd, resulting in minor injuries to several protesters and police officers.
Minister Anirudh Singh said that Himachal Pradesh is known for peace and harmony, and lawlessness would not be tolerated. He added, “A few individuals are trying to give a communal colour to the incident, ignoring the fact that the illegal structure was erected during the COVID-19 pandemic under the previous BJP government.”
Singh further said that the previous BJP regime had provided financial aid to the mosque authorities during its construction. He said, “During the BJP tenure, Rs 2 lakh was provided, and additional funds in lakhs were released for the mosque’s construction.”
The ministers also addressed plans to regulate street vendors, hawkers, and migrant workers in the state. Singh stated that the government would soon implement policies to verify the antecedents of migrants, vendors, and those in rented accommodations. He mentioned plans to create separate vending zones for those earning their livelihood in Himachal Pradesh.
Commenting on the origins of the conflict, Anirudh Singh mentioned a clash between two communities in Malyana, leading to the detention of six Muslim youths staying under false identities. “Some political outfits have given the entire episode a communal twist,” he said.
Urban Development Minister Vikramaditya Singh added that an investigation would be launched into how the “unauthorized structure” was built during the pandemic and why municipal officials failed to act against it.
The state government has urged all communities to maintain peace and abide by the law as the investigation unfolds.
