Protests Erupt Over Alleged Illegal Construction of Sanjauli Masjid in Shimla

Hundreds gathered in Shimla to protest the alleged illegal construction of Sanjauli Masjid. The demonstration included locals, BJP workers, and Hindu organizations. Protestors demanded the mosque's demolition, citing safety and legal concerns. Himachal Pradesh officials emphasized the need for proper verification of all newcomers to the state.

Hundreds of protestors gathered outside the Sanjauli Masjid in Shimla on Thursday to voice their opposition against the mosque's alleged illegal construction. The protestors, a mix of locals, BJP party workers, and members of Hindu organizations, were seen raising slogans and holding the tricolour in their hands to denounce the construction.

BJP worker Ankush Chauhan, a prominent figure among the protestors, called for the mosque's demolition, labeling it as 'illegal.' 'This mosque has been built illegally. The four floors of the mosque are illegal. If we construct anything illegally, it is immediately demolished. It has been 10 years, but no action has been taken on the mosque. This illegal mosque should be demolished,' Chauhan asserted. He added that the entire Hindu community was united in this protest.

Chauhan further claimed that the protests were sparked by a recent incident where a Hindu man was allegedly attacked by Muslim men, causing injuries. He called for an investigation into the increasing number of Muslims in the state, questioning whether they were Rohingyas or Bangladeshis. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh Minister Anirudh Singh highlighted that the Muslim community has coexisted peacefully in the state for generations but noted a recent influx of people from other states, stressing the importance of verifying newcomers to prevent security risks.

'There is no difference between Hindus and Muslims among those coming from other states. The real concern is that we must verify those coming to Himachal Pradesh to prevent any security risks,' Singh explained. He emphasized the need for thorough investigations to ensure the region's safety and security. Singh also mentioned the importance of lawful development, stating, 'This is not about Hindus or Muslims, it's about ensuring the law is followed. People who come to Himachal Pradesh for business or other purposes must go through proper checks.'

The ongoing controversy over the Sanjauli Mosque has fueled political tensions in Himachal Pradesh, with leaders from both the BJP and Congress engaging in heated debates on the assembly floor. The Congress government has reiterated its focus on lawful development and urged vigilance against unchecked migration.

(With inputs from agencies.)