Rajni
North News
Shimla, September 16
Around 50 individuals, including Vishwa Hindu Parishad leaders, former councillors, and panchayat pradhans, have been booked for their involvement in violent actions during a protest on September 11 against the demolition of alleged unauthorized construction at a mosque in Sanjauli. Additionally, 71 people involved in stone-pelting against the police have been identified. Several protesters and police officers were injured in the clashes.
The clash began when Hindu groups demanding the demolition of the mosque confronted law enforcement. The situation escalated as police used water cannons and a mild lathi charge to disperse the crowd after protesters breached police barricades. Over 1,000 security personnel, including the Quick Response Team (QRT), were deployed to manage the unrest.
The protest, starting at 11 a.m., saw heightened tensions with photos and videos circulating on social media on September 11. Schools in the area delayed releasing students as a precaution. Protesters clashed with security forces, removed barricades, and entered the Dhalli Tunnel’s East portal. In response, the administration had imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, banning gatherings of more than five people without permission and prohibiting weapons. Some protestors were detained by the police.
Background on the Sanjauli Mosque Issue
Earlier this month, protests demanded the demolition of a five-story mosque in Sanjauli, alleging it was built on illegal land and housed outsiders. The Himachal Pradesh Waqf Board claimed that the land is legally theirs, and the dispute centers on the additional floors. The matter is currently pending before the Shimla Municipal Corporation Commissioner’s court, with the next hearing scheduled for October 5. Recently, Himachal Chief Minister announced the formation of a committee to draft a street vendors’ policy.
Shimla Mosque dispute: 50 booked for violence
