Shimla looks nothing less than a battlefield right now as Hindu organizations protest against the alleged illegal construction of a mosque in Sanjauli. From lathi charges, and water cannons to stone-pelting, the situation has escalated dramatically. Protestors saw Indian flags and chanted slogans like "Himachal Ne Thana Hai, Devbhoomi Ko Bachana Hai" and "Bharat Mata Ki Jai."
What sparked the protests?
The controversy centers around a mosque located in Sanjauli, Shimla, believed to have been built in 1947, with extensions reportedly added after 2007. A case was filed against the mosque in 2010, claiming it was illegal. Despite 44 hearings, four additional floors were constructed without resolution. The issue gained public attention following an altercation on August 30, when a brawl erupted on August 30th after 4 “occupants” of the mosque allegedly attacked a businessman and several traders with rods and sticks, injuring four people.
The rage built up
As the violence intensified at Chaura Maidan, leaders from Hindu right-wing groups demanded the mosque's demolition. Kamal Gautam, president of the Hindu Jagran Manch's state unit, claimed that the mosque was being used to shelter "outsiders." This sentiment was echoed in the Vidhan Sabha, where Rural Development Minister Anirudh Singh supported the demolition and called for an investigation into the mosque's construction - "They started the construction without approval. It was an illegal structure," he asserted.
The Shimla Beopar Mandal had also organized a bandh on September 11 to protest police actions against Hindu protestors. They warned that failure to address their demands would lead to stricter repercussions.
The Waqf Board's Position
The Shimla Municipal Corporation has questioned how the mosque expanded from one floor to five. The Waqf Board claims ownership of the land and insists that all extensions were made according to regulations. However, they have failed to provide documentation proving this claim. Now, the next court hearing is scheduled for October 5.
The Mosque Committee takes things into its hand
In response to rising tensions, a Muslim welfare committee met with Shimla’s Municipal Commissioner, proposing to seal or demolish any illegal sections of the mosque themselves. Imam Shahzad stated, "There is no pressure on us; we have been living here for decades... We want to stay in peace and brotherhood should prevail."
Government’s reactions
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged citizens to avoid politicizing the issue and maintain law and order. He emphasized that both Congress and BJP share responsibility for communal harmony in Himachal Pradesh. He stated, “If it is found that the mosque is illegal, it will be demolished,” while also calling for calm among protestors.
BJP former CM Jai Ram Thakur criticized the current government for delaying action against what he termed an illegal construction.
Asaduddin Owaisi questioned whether Himachal’s government was being run by BJP or Congress due to their similar stances on this issue. Meanwhile, members of the Dev Bhoomi Sangarh Committee expressed support for the Muslim community’s initiative to seal off the disputed property.
The Sanjauli Mosque controversy really shows the deeper societal issues surrounding religious identity, legality, and community relations in India. As tensions rise over allegations of illegal construction, both sides must navigate this complex landscape carefully. The upcoming court hearing will be crucial in determining not only the fate of the mosque but also how communal relationships evolve in Shimla moving forward or if tensions escalate in other parts of India.
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