Muslim Committee Offers to Demolish Alleged Illegal Mosque Construction in Shimla Amidst Protests

In response to Hindu protests over an 'illegal' mosque in Shimla, the Muslim committee has offered to demolish the disputed section themselves if ordered by the court. The move aims to maintain communal harmony and peace. Protests by Hindu groups had earlier led to clashes with police forces.

In the wake of protests by Hindu groups over an alleged 'illegal' mosque in Himachal Pradesh's capital, Shimla, members of the Muslim committee met Municipal Commissioner Bhupender Kumar Attri on Thursday. They expressed their willingness to demolish the concerned section of the mosque themselves if the court orders so.

Shaizad Alam, Imam of Sanjauli Mosque, stated that the community's primary goal is to maintain harmony. 'We have lived in peace for decades and wish to continue doing so. We submitted this application voluntarily, with no external pressure, to ensure peace and harmony,' said Alam.

Following the meeting, Mufti Mohammed Shafi Kasmi, Imam of Jama Masjid Mosque, emphasized the need for brotherhood between communities, especially in this border state. He assured that if any part of the mosque is illegal, they are ready to remove it to uphold communal harmony.

Meanwhile, Shimla Beopar Mandal called a bandh from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, protesting against the police's use of force on Hindu protestors during a march on Wednesday. All shops in the city and suburbs were closed, and traders marched from Lower Bazar to the District Collector's office.

The previous day, as the protest over the alleged illegal construction of the Sanjauli mosque escalated, police used water cannons and lathi-charge to disperse the crowd. Protestors removed barricades and clashed with security forces while entering the Dhalli Tunnel East portal, leading to a tense situation.

(With inputs from agencies.)