In a significant development aimed at preserving communal harmony, representatives of a Muslim welfare committee submitted a memorandum to Shimla Municipal Corporation Commissioner Bhupender Kumar Attri on Thursday. The memorandum requested the civic body to seal the unauthorized portion of the mosque structure in Sanjauli, with the committee pledging to demolish it in accordance with a court order.
The panel, which includes the Imam of the Sanjauli mosque, Waqf board members, and the mosque management committee, is taking this proactive step to address concerns and maintain peace in the region. The decision follows recent tensions and clashes that erupted over the mosque’s unauthorized construction.
Mufti Mohammad Shafi Kasmi, a member of the welfare committee, emphasized the community’s commitment to harmony, stating, “We have sought permission from the Shimla municipal commissioner to demolish the unauthorized part of the mosque situated in Sanjauli.” This move aims to uphold the legal and communal order, reflecting the community’s desire to resolve issues amicably.
The Imam of the mosque expressed a sentiment of longstanding local attachment, remarking, “There is no pressure on us, we have been living here for decades and this decision has been taken as a Himachali. We want to stay in peace and brotherhood should prevail.”
The Shimla Municipal Commissioner, Bhupender Kumar Attri, confirmed receiving the representation from the committee.
The decision comes in the wake of heightened tensions, following a protest against the unauthorized construction on Wednesday. Demonstrators clashed with security forces in Sanjauli, leading to broken barricades, stone pelting, and police intervention using water cannons and baton charges. The confrontation resulted in injuries to about ten individuals, including police personnel and women.
Vijay Sharma, a member of the Dev Bhoomi Sangarh Committee, which had initially called for the demolition, welcomed the Muslim community’s decision, stating, “We welcome the move of the Muslim community and would be the first to hug them for taking this initiative in the larger interest.”
Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh expressed concern over the escalating situation, assuring that the government is closely monitoring developments to prevent further unrest. The government’s response underscores the importance of addressing both legal and communal concerns to foster peace and cooperation in the region.
