Controversy Erupts Over Alleged Illegal Construction of Sanjauli Mosque: Peace and Brotherhood at Stake

The Leader of Opposition in Himachal Pradesh criticizes the state government amid protests against the alleged illegal construction of Sanjauli Mosque. Amidst growing tensions, the Muslim community proposes demolishing the disputed section to maintain harmony. Meanwhile, financial issues plague the state's government employees and pensioners.

In the wake of protests against the alleged illegal construction of the Sanjauli Mosque, the Leader of Opposition in Himachal Pradesh Assembly, Jairam Thakur, condemned the incident, calling it a “very unfortunate event.” Thakur criticized the state government for failing to maintain peace and for suppressing public dissent, leading to widespread anger.

“Himachal has always been a peaceful state. The recent events in Shimla have brought unprecedented unrest, pointing to a governance failure. The use of water cannons and lathi charges on protestors is regrettable,” Thakur stated. He further highlighted the ongoing economic crisis in the state, noting that government employees and pensioners have not been paid on time, a first in Himachal's history.

In a bid to deescalate tensions, members of the Muslim committee, including Imam Shaizad Alam of the Sanjauli Mosque, met Municipal Commissioner Bhupender Kumar Attri. They offered to demolish the allegedly illegal part of the mosque themselves, emphasizing the importance of maintaining communal harmony and brotherhood. Imam Jama Masjid Mosque’s Mufti Mohammed Shafi Kasmi echoed these sentiments, stressing their willingness to act if the portion is confirmed illegal.

Amidst an intensifying protest over the mosque’s construction, which saw police use water cannons and lathi charges to control the crowds, the Muslim community's leadership has called for peace and brotherhood. The Municipal Commissioner confirmed the receipt of a memorandum from the mosque’s delegation, seeking peaceful resolution and readiness to abide by court orders.