Himachal Pradesh CM Appeals for Peace Amid Tensions Over Unauthorised Mosque Structure

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the public to maintain peace following protests by Hindu groups demanding the demolition of an ‘unauthorised’ mosque structure in Mandi. An all-party meeting was convened to underscore communal harmony. The Muslim community has voluntarily begun demolishing the structure.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the public to maintain peace and brotherhood following tensions and protests by Hindu outfits demanding the demolition of an 'unauthorised' mosque structure in Mandi. Sukhu emphasized that tourists are welcome and everyone should abstain from making provocative statements. He hosted an all-party meeting involving leaders from Congress, BJP, CPI(M), and AAP to appeal for calm.

Referring to the protests by Hindu organizations, the Chief Minister highlighted that protests are part of democracy but must remain peaceful. He noted that the Muslim community itself offered to demolish the unauthorised structures and had already taken steps to do so. Sukhu reiterated that Himachal Pradesh values all religions and no community should be harmed or have their sentiments hurt.

The Chief Minister also addressed the underlying issues, mentioning that the trouble started with a violent altercation involving local shopkeepers and street vendors. A policy for street vendors will be drafted to resolve such issues. Sukhu dismissed claims by Congress minister Anirudh Singh regarding BJP's role in funding the mosque construction during COVID times, urging the focus to remain on peace and lawful resolution.

(With inputs from agencies.)