On Wednesday, tensions occurred in Shimla when the protesters, including members of many Hindu organizations, gathered in the Dhalli area to demonstrate against the alleged illegal construction of a mosque in the Sanjauli area. According to the media reports, ‘Protesters breached police barricades and engaged in vigorous chanting. The situation deteriorated and the police compelled to use batons to disperse the crowd. A heavy police presence was deployed prior to the protest march at the Dhalli tunnel in Shimla, with officers inspecting vehicles to ensure safety and prevent any incidents during the demonstrations.
Demonstrators repeatedly demanded the demolition of the allegedly illegal construction despite the police intervention. Protesters have claimed that they have repeatedly reported the unauthorized building of the mosque to the authorities, but no action has been taken. They argue that the issue is not about a religious site but about legal versus illegal construction.
The controversy dates back to 2010 when construction started on what was initially a shop. Despite many notices, the mosque has reportedly expanded to 6750 square feet and the land in question is government property in Himachal Pradesh. However, the mosque’s Imam claims that it is an old structure dating back to before 1947 and is owned by the Waqf Board.
A hearing was held at the Municipal Commissioner’s office regarding the mosque’s alleged illegal construction on September 7. Since 2010, there have been 45 hearings on this matter but no final decision has been reached. During this period, the mosque has grown from a two-story structure to a five-story building. Additionally, the local residents have observed a rapid increase in the Muslim population in the area. Local complaints include accusations that Muslims are encroaching on land from outside the region, altering Shimla’s demographic composition.
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