Shimla Police Release Video of Violent Protest Over Mosque Construction

Shimla police released a video documenting a violent protest over the alleged illegal construction of a mosque in Sanjauli. The protest resulted in injuries to six policemen, including a woman in serious condition. Himachal Pradesh's government vows to follow legal procedures, and mosque officials offered to self-demolish any illegal parts.

Shimla police on Friday released a video showing stone-pelting during Wednesday's protest in Sanjauli over the alleged illegal construction of a mosque. Eight FIRs have been registered, and six policemen were injured, including a woman officer with severe vertebrae fractures. The demonstrators dismantled the initial barricades and clashed with security forces at the Dhalli Tunnel East portal, prompting police to use water cannons and lathi-charge to disperse them.

Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh emphasized the state government's commitment to abiding by the law. 'There was a large-scale protest in Sanjauli where some police personnel were injured and are currently hospitalized; some protesters were also hurt,' Singh stated. He reiterated the government's sympathies with the protesters but stressed the importance of legal procedures.

Mosque committee members met Municipal Commissioner Bhupender Kumar Attri and expressed willingness to demolish any illegal parts of the mosque voluntarily if ordered by the court. 'To maintain communal harmony, we are ready to seal this place and have given a written letter to the Municipal Commissioner,' Singh added. Imam Shaizad Alam also submitted an application confirming their intent to demolish the illegal sections, emphasizing their desire to maintain social harmony without political influence.

Minister Vikramaditya Singh accused certain individuals, including members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), of inciting the issue and mentioned that the mosque structure was built during the COVID-19 pandemic when Jairam Thakur was the Chief Minister.

(With inputs from agencies.)