Rajni
North News
Shimla, September 11
Several protesters and police officers were injured on Wednesday after clashes erupted in Sanjauli, Shimla, as Hindu groups demanding the demolition of an allegedly illegal mosque structure confronted law enforcement. Police used water cannons and resorted to a mild lathi charge to disperse the crowd after protesters broke through police barricades, according to media reports.
Over 1,000 security personnel, including the Quick Response Team (QRT), were deployed to control the situation. The protest, which started at 11 a.m., saw tensions rise as photos and videos of the event circulated on social media. Several schools delayed releasing students as a precaution.
Protesters clashed with security forces, removing barricades and entering the Dhalli Tunnel’s East portal during a protest rally. In response, the administration has imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, banning gatherings of more than five people without permission and prohibiting the carrying of weapons.
Reports appeared in the section of the media also suggested that some protestors were also detained by the police. Police also erected the barricade near the mosque again but the protesters did not leave the spot and continued raising slogans against the administration. Protesters also alleged that they were denied permission to hold peaceful protests were being arrested.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu echoed these sentiments, stating that the matter is currently under the jurisdiction of the municipal corporation, and the legal process will be followed accordingly. During a recent media interaction, Himachal Pradesh’s Public Works Minister, Vikramaditya Singh, acknowledged the long-pending dispute regarding a contentious structure. He assured that the government is fully aware of the issue and is actively monitoring the situation. Vikramaditya further said that the structure in question will be demolished once a legal decision is made, ensuring all actions remain within the bounds of the law. He also expressed his desire to maintain peace in the state.
Background on the Sanjauli Mosque Issue
Earlier this month, hundreds of demonstrators demanded the demolition of a five-story mosque in Sanjauli, claiming it was built on illegal land and housed outsiders. However, the Himachal Pradesh Waqf Board stated that the land is legally theirs, explaining that the controversy centers around the additional floors built on the existing structure. The matter is currently pending before the Shimla Municipal Corporation Commissioner’s court, with the next hearing scheduled for October 5. Recently, the Himachal Chief Minister has announced the formation of a committee to frame a street vendors’ policy.
