Sanjauli Mosque Faces Demolition Amid Legal and Financial Woes

The Sanjauli Mosque will undergo partial demolition following a court order. Chairman Lucky Mohammad Latif Negi announced the process will start soon, though funding issues may cause delays. The demolition aims to preserve social harmony, despite protests and calls for legal recourse by several groups.

The Sanjauli Mosque is set for partial demolition after obtaining approval from the Himachal Waqf Board, Chairman Lucky Mohammad Latif Negi announced on Monday. The demolition, beginning from the roof of the mosque's three floors, is in compliance with a Municipal Corporation Shimla court order.

Negi highlighted budget constraints and winter weather as potential delays, predicting a minimum five-month timeline. He emphasized the lack of financial backing, stating that while funds are abundant for construction, support is minimal for demolition. An extension request has been submitted to accommodate these challenges.

Amid concerns about community unrest, Negi informed officials about the situation, emphasizing efforts to maintain social harmony. On October 5, the Municipal Corporation Court mandated the removal of three unauthorized floors. Despite prior protests and legal threats, Negi reports substantial backing from both Muslim and Hindu communities.

(With inputs from agencies.)