Controversy Erupts Over Sanjauli Masjid in Shimla: Opposition Blames Government

In Shimla, the Sanjauli Mosque's legality ignites a heated controversy. Opposition leader Jairam Thakur urges peace and holds the Congress government accountable. Key decisions lie with the Municipal Commissioner's court as Himachal Pradesh ministers debate the mosque's legality and necessary actions.

The ongoing controversy surrounding the under-construction Sanjauli Masjid in Shimla has drawn significant attention. Amidst the debate over its legality, Leader of the Opposition Jairam Thakur called for peace and pointed fingers at the Congress government for the situation. 'This issue was discussed in the Vidhan Sabha yesterday,' Thakur stated. 'This case dates back to 2010, yet no actions were taken. I urge people to remain peaceful, and the present government is entirely responsible for this matter,' Thakur told ANI.

He further emphasized the urgency of swift action. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh remarked on Thursday that if the mosque is found 'illegal,' appropriate measures will be taken.

The final decision on the mosque's legality rests with the Municipal Commissioner's court, slated for a hearing on September 7. This session will determine whether the 'unauthorized construction' warrants demolition. 'For a prolonged period, the Sanjauli mosque issue has been escalating. The government is addressing potential structural illegality. The Shimla Municipal Corporation Commissioner currently reviews this long-pending matter. If found illegal, action will be inevitable, and local concerns about immigrants are noteworthy,' Singh added. Echoing these sentiments, Rural Development Minister Anirudh Singh affirmed, 'Illegal construction should not be tolerated anywhere in Himachal Pradesh.' He highlighted that, despite around 44 court hearings since 2010, the mosque's illegal construction persisted. 'Illegal is illegal, regardless of whether it is a temple or a mosque,' he concluded. The Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha saw intense debates on Wednesday regarding this critical issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)