Dispute Over Sanjauli Mosque Demolition Causes Rift

The demolition of three unauthorised stories of a mosque in Sanjauli, Himachal Pradesh, has caused a split between two Muslim organizations. While the AHMO plans to challenge the demolition order, the mosque committee has approved it. The issue involves legal questions about land ownership and authority.

The controversy surrounding the demolition of three unauthorised storeys of a disputed mosque in Sanjauli, Himachal Pradesh, has sparked division between two Muslim organizations in the region. The Shimla Municipal Commissioner's court ordered the demolition on October 5, with compliance expected within two months. However, the All Himachal Muslim's Organisation (AHMO) intends to legally challenge the order.

The disagreement centers on the legality of the demolition and questions about land ownership. Nazakat Ali Hashmi, the AHMO spokesperson, asserts that the land belongs to the Waqf board and challenges the authority of those who consented to the demolition. He claims the municipal court's orders did not adequately account for true ownership and authority.

Contrarily, the Sanjauli mosque committee, headed by president Muhammad Latif, previously agreed to demolish the unauthorized sections and expressed no objection to the court's decision. Latif maintains their commitment to the demolition, despite claims from other mosque committee members questioning their authority in the matter.

(With inputs from agencies.)