In response to the ongoing dispute over a mosque in Shimla’s Sanjauli area, a Muslim welfare committee has asked the Shimla Municipal Corporation to seal the unauthorized portion of the mosque’s structure. The committee, which includes the mosque’s Imam, Waqf board members, and the mosque management, has stated that they will handle the demolition of this section themselves in accordance with a court order.
The committee members met with Shimla Municipal Corporation Commissioner Bhupender Kumar Attri on Thursday to submit their request. They emphasized that their actions are aimed at maintaining harmony and brotherhood among local residents. Mufti Mohammad Shafi Kasmi, a member of the committee, confirmed that the decision to demolish the unauthorized part was made to preserve peace and avoid further conflict.
Imam of the Sanjauli mosque assured that there is no external pressure behind this decision, emphasizing that it is taken in the spirit of coexistence and respect for local traditions.
Shimla Municipal Commissioner Attri confirmed that the request has been received. The Dev Bhoomi Sangarh Committee, which has been advocating for the removal of the unauthorized construction, welcomed the Muslim panel’s initiative. Committee member Vijay Sharma expressed support for the move, calling it a positive step toward community harmony.
This development follows recent clashes between protesters and security forces over the alleged illegal construction. On Wednesday, protests turned violent as demonstrators clashed with police, leading to injuries among both police personnel and civilians. The confrontation involved protesters breaking barricades and throwing stones, while police responded with water cannons and baton charges.
Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh has expressed concern over the escalation and is monitoring the situation closely. He and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu are in communication with central leadership to ensure that the situation does not worsen.
Protesters had defied prohibitory orders and marched towards Sanjauli, causing disruptions and leaving students stranded in schools. Residents criticized the administration for not closing schools, highlighting the impact of the unrest on daily life.