Tensions flared in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, on Wednesday as hundreds of Hindu protesters clashed with police over an alleged illegal mosque in the Sanjauli area. The protesters, chanting slogans of “Jai Shri Ram” and “Hindu Ekta Zindabad”, demanded the demolition of the structure, which they claim was built illegally.
The protest, which started at the Sabzi Mandi Dhalli, saw the protesters marching towards Sanjauli, breaking through police barricades near the Dhalli tunnel. Police responded with a lathi-charge and water cannons to disperse the crowd.
The situation in Sanjauli and surrounding areas escalated with the protests and a subsequent bandh called by Hindu groups. Heavy security deployment turned the area into a virtual fortress. To maintain law and order, the Shimla district administration issued prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, prohibiting gatherings of more than five people and the carrying of weapons.
Himachal Pradesh minister Vikramaditya Singh addressed the situation, emphasizing the right to peaceful protest but emphasizing the need to maintain peace in the area. He stated that the state government would take action if the mosque was found to be illegal. He assured that the matter was sub-judice and a decision would be made once the Municipal Commissioner issued an order.
However, Leader of Opposition in the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, Jairam Thakur, slammed the Sukhu government for delaying action against the alleged illegal construction, adding fuel to the fire of the ongoing tensions.
The protest underscores the complex issue of religious structures and the potential for conflict in India. The state government’s response, while promising action if the mosque is found illegal, highlights the delicate balance between maintaining law and order and addressing the concerns of the protesting community.
