High Court Intervenes in Sanjauli Mosque Legal Dispute

The Himachal Pradesh High Court has instructed the Municipal Commissioner to resolve a 15-year-old case regarding illegal construction of the Sanjauli mosque in Shimla within eight weeks. The court's directive follows the demolition of unauthorized storeys, with further legal proceedings anticipated involving various stakeholders.

In a decisive move, the Himachal Pradesh High Court mandated on Monday that the Municipal Commissioner address the long-standing case concerning alleged illicit construction of the Sanjauli mosque in Shimla within an eight-week time frame. The verdict followed a dramatic demolition of three unauthorized storeys ordered by the MC Court earlier this month.

This case, originating in 2010, drew renewed attention as residents of Sanjauli petitioned for a timely resolution, citing significant delays despite legal requirements to conclude cases within six months. Justice Sandeep Sharma underscored the need for comprehensive stakeholder notifications prior to further hearings.

Amidst tight security measures, demolition operations began under approval from the Waqf Board, with the Sanjauli mosque managing committee executing the removal. However, opposition from the All Himachal Muslims Organisation indicates impending challenges, potentially escalating the matter to higher judicial forums.

(With inputs from agencies.)