Himachal CM Calls for Peace Amid Mosque Construction Controversy

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu urges peace following a dispute over the alleged illegal construction of a mosque in Sanjauli. The issue, currently in court, sees political leaders emphasizing adherence to legal procedures and maintaining community harmony.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has called for peace following a dispute regarding the alleged illegal construction of a mosque in Sanjauli. Sukhu emphasized the state government's duty to ensure peace among communities and mentioned that the dispute would be resolved in court. "India is a secular country. All religions are respected here. We shouldn't get carried away by emotions. We should work as per the law. The protest happened peacefully, and the government is monitoring the situation. As per the law, we will take further action. Our duty is to ensure peace between all communities," Sukhu stated.

The Chief Minister expressed satisfaction that the protests remained peaceful, adding, "If the protesters are calling it illegal construction, then the issue is in court. The court will decide it. Our aim is to maintain peace between the communities. I am happy that no violence has been reported. Himachal Pradesh is a peaceful state."

Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh also highlighted the government's commitment to legal frameworks. "It is our collective responsibility to maintain a peaceful atmosphere in Himachal Pradesh, which includes society, government, and political parties. The matter is sub-judice before the court of the Municipal Commissioner. It is a matter of illegal construction. I request everyone not to politicize it. We respect everyone's sentiments and urge everyone not to take any step that might disrupt peace in the state. Any action taken by the government will be within the framework of law, Constitution, and Municipal Act," said Singh.

Earlier, AIMIM leader and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi criticized the Congress over its stance on the issue, querying whether the Himachal government was run by the BJP or the Congress. Owaisi accused the Himachal minister of speaking the language of the BJP in a video. The Municipal Commissioner's court is set to decide the fate of the mosque on September 7, determining whether the 'unauthorized construction' should be demolished. The Sanjauli Mosque row continues to spark political debates in Himachal Pradesh, with leaders from both BJP and Congress voicing their opinions.

(With inputs from agencies.)